A Louisiana resident has received the largest unclaimed property check in the state’s history, amounting to over $320,000. James Willet, aged 62, was presented with the substantial sum on February 6, 2026, at the Logansport Chamber of Commerce. This remarkable event underscores the state’s unclaimed property program, which aims to reunite individuals with funds that have gone unclaimed.
The presentation was made by Louisiana State Treasurer John Fleming, who confirmed that Willet is the “rightful owner” of the funds. In addition to the significant check, Willet also received nearly $80,000 allocated for a trust benefiting his son. Fleming highlighted this moment as a milestone, stating, “This presentation involved the largest unclaimed property check ever presented to a recipient by a Louisiana State Treasurer.”
Each year, millions of dollars in dormant funds, including insurance proceeds, securities, stocks, and bonds, are turned over to the state government. These funds often stem from payroll checks, royalties, interest payments, or old bank accounts issued in the names of individuals.
Willet appeared calm during the presentation, a testament to his grounded nature despite the life-changing windfall. According to Fleming, Louisiana currently holds more than $1.2 billion in unclaimed property waiting to be claimed by residents. He noted, “One in six individuals in Louisiana has unclaimed property, with claims averaging $900.”
The concept of unclaimed property, known as “escheat,” originated in the United States as a consumer protection measure. The Louisiana Treasury urges residents to check for their unclaimed assets, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming what is rightfully theirs.
Residents can visit UnclaimedProperty.LA.gov to determine if they are eligible for any funds. As of now, almost $900,000 has been successfully returned to residents through the unclaimed property program.
James Willet, a native of Shreveport, is also known for being the manager of Gators and Friends, an alligator park and exotic animal zoo located in Greenwood, Louisiana. He founded this attraction with his wife, Olga, in 2006.
The Louisiana State Treasury continues to encourage residents to explore their eligibility for unclaimed property, reiterating that these funds represent money that rightfully belongs to them. As Willet’s story illustrates, significant amounts can be waiting for individuals across the state.
