Did You Make the State's $1.5 Billion List?

The state of Illinois is holding a $1.5 billion unclaimed property bag.

According to state officials, the propery and funds have been left behind by people who have moved away without leaving a forwarding address with blanks, employers and insurance companies. Once funds or property have been untouched for five years, they are turned over to the state.

Sara Wojcicki of the state treasurer's office says the treasurer's office has become the holder of abandoned savings and checking accounts, forgotten stocks and bonds, travelers checks, life insurance policies and safe deposit box contents. Although some property owners in the database are deceased, their heirs are able to claim their property.

In February, the treasurer's office will publish its twice-yearly listing of residents with unclaimed property.