The Colorado State Treasurer’s Office is encouraging veterans and their families to claim military medals, service records, and unclaimed money currently held by the Great Colorado Payback program. The announcement comes as Veterans Day approaches.
“Our veterans and their loved ones have given so much in service to our country,” said Treasurer Dave Young. “Reconnecting them with their unclaimed property is one small way we can honor their sacrifice and commitment.”
The Colorado Unclaimed Property Division is currently holding several military decorations that were found in safe deposit boxes, including three Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. According to the Treasury, these items are kept indefinitely until the rightful owners or heirs can be identified and notified directly.
Bianca Gardelli, Director of the Unclaimed Property Division, noted challenges in returning these items: “Many veterans are no longer with us, which makes it more challenging to identify and return these items to the rightful heir,” she said. “By state law, we never sell military medals or decorations; they remain safe with the Treasury until we can transfer them securely. We encourage families to come forward and collect these priceless heirlooms.”
The public is reminded that over 15 million assets worth more than $2 billion are being safeguarded by the Treasury for Coloradans who may not realize they have lost property. Individuals are encouraged to search for missing assets at GreatCOPayback.com.
The Colorado Department of the Treasury manages taxpayer funds from receipt through disbursement and oversees programs like the Great Colorado Payback, which helps reunite residents with lost or forgotten assets. More information about its responsibilities can be found at colorado.gov/treasury.
