Woodlawn-area residents and businesses in the 45215 zip code are sitting on $10.1 million in unclaimed money held by the state of Ohio.
The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of Unclaimed Funds released rankings showing zip code 45215 ranks 32nd statewide out of all Ohio zip codes. Statewide, the Division holds $5.4 billion in unclaimed funds. About $644.9 million of that belongs to people and businesses in southwest Ohio, WLWT reported Monday, Sept. 14.
The 45215 zip code, which covers Woodlawn and parts of surrounding communities in Hamilton County, placed fifth among southwest Ohio zip codes. Downtown Cincinnati's 45202 zip code topped the regional list at $22.9 million.
Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel is fronting a statewide campaign launched in July urging Ohioans to search for money owed to them. "I encourage every Ohioan to visit the website, do a quick search, and make sure they aren't leaving behind something that's theirs," Tressel said in a statement.
In fiscal year 2026, which ended June 30, the Division paid more than 184,000 claims, a 168% increase over the prior year, according to the Division's announcement. The total returned reached $190 million, up 72% from $149.9 million in fiscal year 2025. Submitted claims rose roughly 50%.
Division Superintendent Akil Hardy said the agency is working to speed up the process. The Division has eliminated the requirement for a W-9 tax form, dropped the need for notarized claim forms, and added nearly two dozen staff members to process claims.
The surge in filings means patience is required. The Division asks claimants to allow up to 120 days for review, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported. Some claims may take longer.
How to check and claim your funds
Residents can search for unclaimed money at unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov in three steps:
- Search by name and generate a claim form.
- Gather the required documentation.
- Submit the claim form and documents by mail or upload them online.
Claim status is available around the clock at the same website. Residents with questions can call the Division's customer support line at 614-466-4433.
