Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver has introduced Senate Bill 1201, aiming to increase oversight and consumer protections for Pennsylvanians dealing with “finders”—individuals or companies who offer to recover unclaimed property for a fee. The legislation is intended to help residents avoid unnecessary charges while still allowing them the option to use a finder if they choose.
“Pennsylvania has made it easier than ever for residents to reclaim property held by Treasury at no cost through programs like the Pennsylvania Money Match,” Culver said. “This bill adds safeguards so families have clear information and stronger protections before agreeing to pay a finder’s fee.”
Culver highlighted a recent incident in her district where a couple received an offer from an out-of-state entity promising to recover their unclaimed property for a percentage-based fee. After reaching out to Culver’s office, staff confirmed the couple did have unclaimed property with the Treasury and assisted them in filing a claim directly, free of charge. The couple ultimately recovered nearly $12,000 without paying any fees, avoiding what could have been up to $1,800 in charges under current law.
Treasurer Stacy Garrity commented on the ongoing efforts of her office: “At Treasury, we are setting new benchmarks every year by returning more unclaimed property to Pennsylvanians than ever before – a testament to our unwavering commitment to serve the people of our Commonwealth and get this money back into the right hands,” Garrity said. “I am deeply grateful for Senator Culver’s leadership in introducing legislation that brings meaningful enhancements to our program, raising the standards for finders and making sure property owners receive what is rightfully theirs without losing a big cut to someone else. I encourage Pennsylvanians to contact Treasury or their local legislators directly to claim their funds for free.”
The proposed bill would update Pennsylvania’s laws regarding unclaimed property by adding new safeguards when using finders’ services. It has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee for review.
Culver stated that her office will continue working closely with the Treasurer’s office so residents can access reliable information and claim their property without unnecessary costs.
