Effective April 12, 2021, Ohio law created Attorney Unclaimed Funds, beginning an innovative new partnership with the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Unclaimed Funds. The law authorizes the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation to use Attorney Unclaimed Funds to support civil legal aid and access to justice. Thanks to this resource, the Foundation is funding Phase Two of its award-winning Neighborhood Stabilization Grant Program to increase access to healthy, safe, and affordable housing for low-income Ohioans.

“We deeply appreciate the Division of Unclaimed Funds for their supportive partnership,” said Foundation Executive Director Angie Lloyd. “Attorney Unclaimed Funds demonstrate how collaboration and innovation can create stronger communities across Ohio.”

The Neighborhood Stabilization Grant Program funds legal work across the state to address housing needs, including the development of affordable housing, support for healthy housing, and promotion of homeownership. By partnering with legal aid and community organizations, the Foundation ensures grant dollars strengthen neighborhoods in practical ways. Recent projects include:

  • Cincinnati: The Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati partners with community organizations to provide affordable homeownership to low-income families by transforming vacant properties into stable housing through the Price Hill Homesteading Program.
  • Greene County: Advocates for Basic Legal Equality partners with Yellow Springs Home, Inc., a community land trust, to develop an affordable senior-focused housing project called the Cascades.
  • Youngstown: Community Legal Aid advocates for senior and disabled tenants in a large housing complex facing conditions issues in the building.

By reporting Attorney Unclaimed Funds, Ohio attorneys can fulfill their professional duty and contribute to meaningful housing projects that promote safety, stability, and financial security for low-income Ohioans. The deadline to report Attorney Unclaimed Funds to the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Unclaimed Funds is November 1, and attorneys should use code TR88 when reporting.

“There is a widespread recognition of the need to address the affordable housing shortfall,” Lloyd said. “Thanks to Attorney Unclaimed Funds, the Foundation has an incredible opportunity to impact affordable housing for the Ohioans who need it most.”

Visit the Foundation’s website for more information on Attorney Unclaimed Funds and how to report to the Division of Unclaimed Funds.