More than $100 million was returned to Maryland residents after the state implemented a new online system allowing officials to identify and recover unclaimed funds.
To date, the modernized portals have processed more than $103 million, a sharp rise from the $79 million returned to residents the year before the new systems took effect.
"Marylanders should not have to jump through hoops to get money that belongs to them," Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman said in a statement.
"This increase in payouts demonstrates the value of modernizing systems so that government works better for Marylanders."
The modernized systems tapped by the state include the Kelmar Abandoned Property System and Quick Pay.
While the former allows residents to file supporting documents online and check their claim status 24/7, the latter makes it possible for eligible funds that are less than $5,000 to be returned automatically.
Checks are dispatched to residents after officials verify their mailing address. Unclaimed property ranges from uncashed checks to dormant financial accounts and insurance proceeds.
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