Businesses holding unclaimed property can learn about their obligation to report it to the state through free workshops being offered around the state by the Washington State Department of Revenue.

Unclaimed property includes unclaimed paychecks, utility deposits, bank accounts, refunds, life insurance proceeds, stocks and bonds and contents of safe deposit boxes.  Businesses have to report unclaimed property after losing contact with owners for an extended period, generally three years.

Businesses and individuals can search http://claimyourcash.org to see if they have any assets to claim.

Unclaimed Property Audit Manager Barbie Schneider said businesses can view the 2012 workshop schedule and register online by going tohttp://dor.wa.gov and clicking on the workshops and education link on the left.  Courses include unclaimed property basics and information for financial institutions and for local governments. Questions can be directed to UCP@dor.wa.gov.