West Central Reporter

State Representative Randy Frese informed constituents about Illinois' unclaimed property program in an October 24 Facebook post. He said, "The checks are part of Illinois' unclaimed property program and are safe to cash."

"If you receive a check from the treasurer in the mail, it's not a scam," said Frese, according to Facebook. "The checks are part of Illinois' unclaimed property program and are safe to cash."

The Unclaimed Property program aims to return funds to Illinois residents. Typically, individuals must access the Unclaimed Property database to determine if they have property to claim. However, according to a Chicago Sun-Times article, State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is utilizing the Enhanced Money Match program to identify recipients and mail them checks directly, eliminating the need for individuals to search the database themselves.

Screenshot of State Rep. Randy Frese's Oct. 24 Facebook post | State Representative Randy Frese's Facebook page

Frerichs explained, "We have done such a good job convincing people in the state that there are identity thieves out there, that they think it’s a scam. They think it’s a hoax and these checks go uncashed. This money doesn’t belong to the state; it belongs to our citizens and we love to return it."

For those preferring to use the unclaimed property database, four steps are outlined on the iCash website for discovering and claiming unclaimed property. The process involves visiting the iCash page, searching for properties by name or business name, clicking on claim buttons, completing necessary forms with identification details, and tracking claims via email notifications.

Frese serves as the State Representative for Illinois' 99th District. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Sciences/Agriculture from Western Illinois University and has experience as a sales representative in various sectors before establishing his own businesses in Adams County. Frese is also actively involved with local organizations such as the Adams County Farm Bureau and has served on several boards including those for Adams County Fair and Quincy Catholic Charities.