You should check the unclaimed property database at least twice each year because businesses surrender unclaimed property twice each year.
One suggestion is to check the unclaimed property database on your birthday and then six months later.
Illinois’ unclaimed property program – also known as ICash - is one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives. In Illinois, the state treasurer is tasked with safeguarding unclaimed property, such as unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, and unused rebate cards. Illinois holds more than $3 billion in unclaimed property.
The state treasurer is legally required to return the property to the rightful owners no matter how long it takes. Individuals can search the state treasurer’s database for their name or the name of their business or non‑profit at www.illinoistreasurer.gov /ICASH.