More than $362k waiting to be claimed at Lee Clerk’s office
The Lee County Clerk’s office has $362,441 waiting to be claimed by citizens and businesses, according to a report released by Clerk Kevin Karnes. They have until March 24 to claim the funds.
More than 1,000 individuals and businesses who are owed money can visit leeclerk.org/treasurehunt to search for their names or download the full list.
“The average claim is $248, with the largest amount being $56,000,” Karnes said. “If you’ve done business with Lee County or the Clerk’s office, or if you had a court case in recent years, I encourage you to visit leeclerk.org to see if you or your company is owed money.”
The report includes uncashed checks for county and Clerk vendors, tax deed payments and foreclosure auction transactions. Court registry payments and overpayments for recorded documents, such as mortgages or deeds, are also included.
Instructions on how to claim the funds are available on the Clerk’s website. Completed and notarized unclaimed monies forms may be dropped off at the Clerk’s Finance Department, 2115 Second St., 3rd Floor in Fort Myers. The office is open 8:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Forms can also be mailed to Lee County Clerk of the Court & Comptroller, Attn: Unclaimed Money, P.O. Box 2396, Fort Myers, FL 33902-2396.
A copy of a valid W-9 for businesses or a valid photo ID with address for individuals must be provided with the mailed form. Mailed forms must be postmarked by March 24. If not claimed by the March 24 deadline, approximately $160,000 will be forfeited to the state.
For a list of names and complete claim requirements, visit leeclerk.org/treasurehunt.
ABOUT THE CLERK’S OFFICE
The Florida Constitution established the Clerk of the Circuit Court as a public trustee, responsible for safeguarding public records and public funds. Clerk Kevin Karnes is directly elected by and accountable to Lee County residents. In addition to the role of Clerk of the Circuit Court, the Clerk is the County Recorder and Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners, and the Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Auditor for Lee County.
Source: Lee County Clerk’s office