The state of Ohio is looking for taxpayers who may have left behind money in bank accounts, insurance policies and other investments.

David Goodman, Director of the Ohio Department of Commerce said the state holds a total of $1.4 billion. In recent months, his agency has stepped up its efforts to return money to its rightful owners.

"We are pretty aggressive," said Goodman.

Commerce department employees have launched extensive searches for people who are owed the most in each of Ohio's 88 counties.

A News Center Seven I-Team Report tracked down some of the largest accounts across the Miami Valley.

Montgomery County's top amount is $87,229 owed to a former Dayton couple, Robert and Mary Moore. The state has been unable to locate them.

Fran Ruddell discovered $40,000 left behind in an account by her grandmother. "It's like winning the lottery," said Ruddell.

How do you begin your search?

The process is simple. Go to the WHIOTV.COM homepage. Click on the "Online Treasure Hunt" logo to begin your search. You will be directed to the State Commerce Department web page using missingmoney.com

Enter your name and begin your search. The site allows you to search for accounts in Ohio and other states as well.

If you find money being held in your name and you have reason to believe it is your money, then follow the directions on the site to make a claim. Applying for the money does not cost you anything, but a small percentage is retained by the state when an award is made to cover overhead.

The timetable for payments from the state ranges from four weeks to a few months.

jim.otte@whiotv.com