Are You Missing Out? $19 Million in Unclaimed Relief Checks in Maine

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State Leaders Urge Residents to Claim Unused Relief Payments

In an unexpected twist, $19 million in pandemic-era relief payments remain unclaimed in Maine. Roughly 40,000 relief payments issued to Maine residents have yet to be collected. Both Governor Janet Mills and State Treasurer Henry Beck are calling on residents to check if they might have missed out on these funds.

Relief Payments Issued During the Pandemic

During the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, Maine took significant steps to support its residents. In 2021, the state issued relief payments of $285 to those who worked through the initial stages of the pandemic. The following year, in 2022, eligible Mainers received $850 checks aimed at alleviating the economic pressures brought on by pandemic-related inflation. Last year, the state issued $450 checks to help residents cope with rising energy costs.

$19 Million Still Unclaimed

Despite the majority of these checks being cashed, a substantial amount remains unclaimed. The unclaimed funds have now been transferred to the Maine Unclaimed Property Program. Governor Mills and Treasurer Beck are actively encouraging Mainers to verify if they have unclaimed relief payments.

“Many Mainers worked tirelessly during the pandemic and are rightfully entitled to this support,” said Governor Mills. “We urge everyone to take a moment to check if they have any unclaimed funds.”

How to Check for Unclaimed Payments

Residents can easily check if they have unclaimed checks by visiting the Maine Unclaimed Property Program’s website at https://www.maineunclaimedproperty.gov/ or by calling (207) 624-7470. The process is straightforward and could lead to a much-needed financial boost for many.

State Treasurer Henry Beck added, “These funds were set aside to help Mainers through difficult times. If you think you might be eligible, please take a few minutes to check. It’s your money, and it’s here to help.”

Ensuring Everyone Gets Their Due

The state is making concerted efforts to ensure that the funds reach those who need them. Public awareness campaigns and direct notifications are part of the strategy to inform eligible residents about the unclaimed payments. The Maine Unclaimed Property Program is also working diligently to reunite people with their rightful funds.

In these challenging times, every bit helps. The state’s leaders hope that by spreading the word, they can ensure that the remaining $19 million reaches the pockets of Mainers who earned and deserve this financial relief.

Attribution source: Mainepublic.org