This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Need some extra cash for the holidays? State Treasurer David Damschen says the state has $375 million in unclaimed property — and is urging citizens to check online at mycash.utah.gov to see if any of it may belong to them.

"This is one of my favorite jobs as state treasurer, because it's a bit like playing Santa Claus," Damschen said in a press release.

"Maybe you moved and forgot you had a utility deposit or didn't leave a forwarding address on an old account. Checking to see if you've lost property is simple, easy and something everyone should do for themselves, their families and friends — especially this time of year," he said.

By law, unclaimed property is turned over to state government for safekeeping and reclaim — and is not kept permanently by companies, employers, service providers and others. Examples of such property include uncashed payroll checks, dormant bank accounts, overpaid bills, and security deposit-box contents.

A list of such property is searchable online at mycash.utah.gov or by calling 801-715-3300.

"All that stands between you and money you've lost is a simple online search or phone call," said Unclaimed Property Division Administrator Dennis Johnston.

"The average amount awaiting reclaim is over $400, which would cover a lot of holiday expenses. So get online, call and start your claims process today," he said.