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Even though this in-person event went virtual, the success was still notable.

Suffolk’s City Treasurer, Ronald H. Williams, partnered with the Virginia Department of Treasury to help Suffolk residents claim any missing money owed to them. More than 800 citizens participated in the virtual event held on Nov. 17 and 18.

In November, the particular days were the ones Williams had worked out with the Division of Unclaimed Property to specifically and personally assist Suffolk residents. During this time, people could call the number to receive special help. This virtual event uncovered more than $80,000 owed to residents in the community.

“Unpaid wages, security deposits, insurance policies, utility deposits and refunds, or even old, forgotten-about bank accounts are oftentimes the source of the unclaimed property,” said Deputy Treasurer Andrew Owen.

Williams hosts unclaimed property events every year. These events are usually held in-person at Peanut Fest, City Hall or the North Suffolk Library. According to the Virginia Department of the Treasury, one in four Virginians has money owed to them with a total balance of more than $1 billion across the state.

While the pandemic continues to affect people’s finances, Williams always encourages citizens to look into whether there may be money missing.

“Working with taxpayers every day, I know that there are many people who find themselves in difficult financial circumstances through no fault of their own, and I want them to know about this opportunity,” said Williams.

Despite the virtual event being over, anyone can still look for unclaimed property at any time. There is no risk, fee or obligation when looking. Visit www.vaMoneySearch.org, or call the Department of the Treasury at 800-468-1088.

Plans are already in the works for next year’s event. A virtual event will take place on Nov. 16 and 17. The event may go back to being in-person if it becomes safe to do so at that time.