‘Good reward,’ says man after finding $1,000 in unclaimed cash – it took a few minutes and thousands of US dollars owe similar debt

A THRILLED man discovered more than $1,000 in unclaimed cash in just a few minutes, and he’s not alone – thousands of Americans could receive similar sums.

Brill Burnett was able to profit from this because the Tennessee Department of Treasury holds nearly $1 billion in unclaimed money and intends to return it to the rightful owners for free.

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“I just found $1,452.34 in unclaimed money,” Burnett told the ABC affiliate ATTENTION in Memphis.

“It’s a nice reward.”

Unclaimed property includes money from uncashed paychecks or inactive savings accounts turned over by companies that have been unable to locate the owners.

One in six Tennessee residents has unclaimed money, often unknowingly, with average claims around $1,000.

Recovering unclaimed money can be quick and simple, as experienced by people like Burnett.

To claim unclaimed money, proof of ownership is required: photo ID, Social Security number and card, and address verification (invoice or pay stub).

There is no time limit for claiming unclaimed money in Tennessee, and heirs can claim deceased relatives.

Unclaimed property is a free service and individuals can search and file claims fee-free through the Tennessee Department of Treasury website.

Assistance is available at community events, including one on June 8 at New Direction Christian Church and the Germantown Festival on September 7 and 8.

SHOCKING MONEY

Pamela Routh was surprised to learn she had unclaimed money.

“I’m like, ‘Damn, this is great,’” she told WATN.

“Take a picture. I need to send this to my husband.”

Shelli King, communications director for the Tennessee Department of Treasury, said the money owed comes as a shock to most.

“A lot of people are surprised to hear that, but it’s true,” King told WATN.

“Last year, we returned 65 thousand complaints.

“The average claim is about $1,000.

“Most claims will cost a few $100.

“Some can cost as little as $15.

“There is never a time limit to claiming your money in Tennessee.

“Even heirs can claim deceased relatives.”