**Over $9 Million in Unclaimed Checks Heading to Pennsylvanians’ Mailboxes**
Exciting news for residents of Pennsylvania! **More than $9 million worth of checks are about to land in your mailboxes**, and the state treasurer is urging everyone to cash these checks without hesitation.
What is the Money Match Program?
According to the Pennsylvania Treasury, **nearly 40,000 checks totaling $9.2 million** have been distributed through the second round of the Money Match program. This innovative program is designed to return unclaimed funds to residents, and it’s making waves!
“It’s thrilling to see so many Pennsylvanians receiving money they didn’t even know they had,” said Treasurer **Stacy Garrity** in a recent press release. **“It’s vital that people cash these checks. This is real money for real families—money that can help buy groceries, fill gas tanks, or pay rent. It rightfully belongs to the residents, not the state.”**
How Can You Get a Money Match Check?
If you expect one of these checks, you may already be in the loop! The Treasury mailed out notification letters **earlier this May** to residents informing them that unclaimed property would be automatically returned.
The **Pennsylvania Money Match program** identifies and returns single-owner properties valued at up to **$500** after a comprehensive verification process. This means if you have unclaimed cash, the Treasury is on your side to ensure you get it back.
Upcoming Check Disbursements
Checks are distributed quarterly, with the next batch of around **40,000 letters** anticipated to be sent out in **August**. The Treasury aims to return **$30 million this year**, making it a significant opportunity for many families. Unclaimed property can encompass various assets, such as:
- Dormant bank accounts
- Uncashed checks
- Forgotten stocks and insurance policies
- Contents of abandoned safety deposit boxes
**More than one in ten Pennsylvanians has unclaimed property**, with the average claim exceeding **$1,000**. **Curious if you’re owed money?** You can easily check online here.
Legislative Moves to Expand the Program
In a beneficial twist, the **Money Match program** was signed into law by **Gov. Josh Shapiro** last year. Currently, there’s momentum in both chambers of the **General Assembly** to enhance the program further. The proposal includes increasing the threshold for Money Match, permitting the return of more unclaimed properties automatically.
As it stands, the program is limited to claims for properties valued under **$500**. Individuals with claims that exceed this amount or involve multiple owners will still need to file online and provide necessary documentation.
Stay Informed!
Make sure you’re in the know! Stay updated on the **Money Match program** and your potential unclaimed assets. This is a unique opportunity for financial relief that could significantly impact many Pennsylvanian families. Don’t let your hard-earned money go unclaimed!
For more insights and updates, keep an eye out for news from CBS Pittsburgh and the Pennsylvania Treasury.
**By Madeline Bartos**, CBS Pittsburgh Digital Web Producer
