Dale Borough’s $71K Recovery: A Lesson in Unclaimed Property

Darrin Buckridge
Published Aug 2, 2026

Dale Borough’s $71K Recovery: A Lesson in Unclaimed Property

Unclaimed money might not be the first thing on your mind, but it recently became a game-changer for Dale Borough.

In a win for local governance and fiscal responsibility, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department returned $71,505.08 in unclaimed property to this small community.

Here’s how it happened and why it matters to you.
 

The Backstory

The funds originated from a 2019 account linked to a Certificate of Deposit (CD) held by Dale Borough.

A communication lapse between the borough and its bank during a municipal office relocation caused the money to slip through the cracks.

Fortunately, Borough Treasurer Brian Riffle stayed vigilant, uncovering the oversight after a persistent investigation.

The money was reclaimed thanks to state Rep. Frank Burns and Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity.

Both officials emphasized the importance of unclaimed property programs to reunite individuals, businesses, and local governments with forgotten funds.

Read: The State By State Guide to Unclaimed Assets
 

Why This Matters

For Dale Borough, this $71,000 is no small change—it’s a lifeline for balancing budgets and addressing financial challenges.

For other municipalities and individuals across the state, it underscores the potential value of unclaimed property programs.

Unclaimed property includes forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, and even the contents of safety deposit boxes.

The Pennsylvania Treasury Department has already returned $17.7 million to nearly 100 local government agencies, showcasing its commitment to serving communities.

Related: Pennsylvania Treasury Returns Record-Breaking $500 Million in Unclaimed Property Over Two Years
 

How You Can Benefit

Pennsylvania residents and organizations should take advantage of the state’s unclaimed property database.

Searching is free and easy, and you may uncover money you didn’t even know existed.

Funds could stem from dormant accounts, misplaced records, or administrative mix-ups like Dale’s.

Beyond individuals, local governments and businesses can also benefit.

These funds might be the key to unlocking budgets or fueling community projects.
 

The Bigger Picture

The proactive efforts by officials like Rep. Burns and Treasurer Garrity reflect the importance of state programs designed to give back to the public.

By identifying and reclaiming these funds, they’re ensuring that money goes back into the communities where it belongs.
 

What to Do Next

If you live in Pennsylvania or have connections to the state, take a moment to check for unclaimed property.

Your diligence might uncover an unexpected financial boost.

Visit the Pennsylvania Treasury's unclaimed property website to search your name or your municipality’s name today.

Dale Borough’s story is a reminder that vigilance pays off—sometimes literally.

Whether you're a citizen or a community leader, don’t leave potential funds unclaimed.

Previous article: Is Your Retirement Plan Missing $1.65 Trillion? Time to Reclaim What’s Yours

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