2023

Program Also Observes Its 40th Year in 2023 SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Treasurer’s Ag Invest Program has achieved a new milestone by loaning more than $1 billion to farmers and agriculture professionals across the state, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today. The milestone represents the cumulative amount of Ag Invest loans since Frerichs became state treasurer in 2015. “Agriculture is a valued and crucial industry in Illinois,” Frerichs said. “I’m proud that my office can help provide affordable financing for farmers and agricultural professionals as they pursue their…

Record-Setting $1.6 Billion Returned Since He Took Office SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office returned nearly $22.7 million in unclaimed property during March, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today. The total includes more than $20 million in cash and interest and nearly $2.6 million in stock value returned. All told, 11,366 claims were paid. “I place a priority on reuniting people with money that belongs to them. Putting money in people’s pockets is a way to help the state’s economy,” Frerichs said. “We will hold onto unclaimed property…

Offices Can Be Economic Engines for State and Local Areas ROCK ISLAND — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today met with Rock Island County Treasurer Nick Camlin to collaborate and explore opportunities to assist area residents. Identifying ways to leverage unclaimed property, expand the use of Ag Invest and broaden participation in plans to help pay for college and save for retirement rose to the top of the list. “The treasurer’s office really is an economic engine,” Frerichs said. “In addition to investing money in a safe and responsible manner,…

Prospective Bidders Must Register to Participate SPRINGFIELD — Collectible coins, sports cards and jewelry are among the more than 500 unclaimed property items to be auctioned online from April 3 through April 7. “The online auction is an excellent and convenient opportunity to shop for collectibles and other memorabilia,” said Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs, whose office oversees unclaimed property in Illinois. “Jewelry, cards, and souvenirs could be a wonderful addition to a personal collection or a unique gift to a friend of relative.” Items to be auctioned include a…

Contest for Young Photographers Marks Its 11th Year SPRINGFIELD — Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is encouraging young Illinois photographers to submit photos for the 2023 Cream of the Crop Photo Contest, which offers students a creative way to share their vision of agriculture in our state. The treasurer’s office will accept electronic submissions for the contest starting March 22, and the entry deadline is June 12. “Let’s seek photographs to showcase why Illinois is a leader in the agricultural industry with its rich soil, diversity in products, and millions…