The new system for the Ohio Division of Unclaimed Funds makes it easier for businesses to report unclaimed funds. Learn why Ohio businesses need to report these funds, how the state processes them, and how you can search for money that might belong to you. Billions of dollars in unclaimed funds are waiting to be claimed by rightful owners. Visit unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov to search your name or a loved one's name to see if you have any Unclaimed Funds.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to break the silence, reduce stigma, and offer support to those affected by mentalhealth challenges. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we shine a light on the undeserved risks faced by first responders in Ohio and across thenation.
From firefighters and EMTs to law enforcement and dispatchers, these public safety professionals often carry invisible burdens. First Responders’ Bridge Founder, Executive Director Mick Yinger, join us to discuss the realities of mental health in the field, share stories of resilience, and highlight necessary resources available to help those who protect us every day.
Breaking down the new Ohio Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Portal and other efforts by the Ohio State Fire Marshal's office and the Ohio Fire Academy to help the volunteer fire service. Learn more by visiting com.ohio.gov/fire
Your safety is our top priority! Discover how Ohio’s Building Code and Elevator Inspectors work every day behind the scenes to protect you. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, experts from our Division of Industrial Compliance discuss the insights of our safety inspections and the importance of the work inspectors do to ensure every commercial building open to the public meets the highest safety standards. Learn more by visiting com.ohio.gov/dic
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we discuss the Ohio Sales Tax Holiday and how to navigate the busy back-to-school season without breaking the bank. Our Division of Financial Institutions has you covered with smart budgeting tips, insights from Ohio retailers, and everything you need to know about Ohio’s two-week Sales Tax Holiday. For more information about the Ohio Sales Tax Holiday, visit:
Ohio's 2025 Expanded Sales Tax Holiday | Department of Taxation
Explore our free budgeting tools by visiting: Making a Budget Fit You | Ohio Department of Commerce
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we discuss changes to the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) homebuyers' programs to ensure the long-term availability of help for Ohioans to achieve their dreams of purchasing a home. The Ohio Division of Real Estate Superintendent Daphne Hawk and OHFA's Executive Director Bill Beagle speak about these important updates that took effect starting July 1, 2025.
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we discuss bank regulations for starting a de novo bank in Ohio with the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions. We also chat with CEOs from both Fortuna Bank and Adelphi Bank about the application process, the importance of careful planning, and compliance with state and federal regulations when starting a new bank in Ohio.
Last year $28 billion was stolen from individuals over the age of 60 in a variety of financial scams and frauds originating both here in Ohio by perpetrators known by the victim, or elsewhere around the world. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, the Ohio Department ofCommerce will walk you through what these scams look like and how to keep your loved ones safe.
The Division of Liquor Control launched the Ohio Permit and Licensing System (OPAL) — a cutting-edge digital portal that transforms the management of liquor permits in Ohio. The system will simplify the process for the nearly 40,000 individuals and businesses that hold or seek a liquor permit or another type of registration. Learn more by visiting com.ohio.gov/opal
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we explore job opportunities within the construction trades and how Ohio is addressing the growing need forskilled workers in the industry. Megan Foley, Professional Development Coordinator with the Ohio Board of Building Standards, and Michael Baisden, Ohio Contracting Administrator with the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board, provide insights into the certification and licensing process, the value of adhering to proper building codes, and how these measures contribute to asafer Ohio. Tune in to explore the various resources and programs available to help you get started on your journey in the skilled trades.
It’s Alcohol Awareness Month. This podcast will highlight how the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control regulates alcohol in the state, how it partners with other external agencies to do so. In addition, it will highlight how the Division’s agency operations arm known as Ohio Liquor (OHLQ) embraces and promotes social responsibility given its role in owning and selling high-proof spirits in the state.
The Ohio Department of Commerce is excited to announce a new system for its Division of Unclaimed Funds. The new technology will improve efficiency in processing claims and holder reporting. Ohioans will be able to claim lost money directly on the department's website, and holders can report unclaimed funds directly onthe website. For more information, visit unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov
As technology rapidly advances, so do the tactics of scammers using social media and AI, making it essential for Ohio consumers to closely guard their personal and financial information. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, we collaborate with the Ohio Attorney General's Office to raise awareness and educate all listeners, so they don’t risk falling prey to these sophisticated frauds. Listen now for the top scams happening in our backyard and for guidance as wediscuss practical methods to avoid becoming a potential victim.
This podcast highlights how unknown individuals are targeting Ohio consumers via unsolicited communications, text messages, phone calls, emails, and letters to acquire their personal information or property for less than its worth.
Our experts, Kenyetta Bagby from the Consumer Affairs section of the Division of Financial Institutions and Daphne Hawk, Superintendent from our Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing, share valuable insights, resources, and tips for safeguarding yourself from these fraudulent practices.
For more information visit: com.ohio.gov/ConsumerAffairs
In this important and timely episode, we discuss the topic of burn prevention and fire safety as we recognize Burn Awareness Week in Ohio. This year’s theme, "Burn Prevention Starts Where You Live," emphasizes the importance ofunderstanding and mitigating burn risks within your own home.
Burn risks can exist in any living space, from houses to apartments, and may present themselves in various forms. However, by adopting a proactive approach and taking simple steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of burns and ensure the safety of your family.
Join us as Fire Prevention Bureau Assistant Chief Paul Martin shares valuable insights and practical advice for Ohio consumers looking to maintain a fire-safe environment. From identifying potential hazards to implementing effective prevention measures, we'll cover everything you need to know to keep your loved ones protected.
Listen now and help spread the word on fire safety in Ohio and together let's create safer homes and communities across Ohio. Stay Fire Safe, Ohio!
Are you looking to buy a new home? But more importantly, have you heard about the recent changes in Ohio real estate law? In the next episode of Protecting What Matters, the Ohio Department of Commerce helps homebuyers and sellers navigate the changes in buyer representation and how it can impact your search for that dream home.
In this episode of Protecting What Matters, Ohio Liquor talks about the concept of Dry January and how many people use it as an opportunity to reset their relationship with alcohol. We also dive into the important work of the Prevention Action Alliance and highlight other valuable resources that help individuals understand the importance of responsible alcohol consumption. Learn more about how you can make informed choices when it comes to alcohol by visiting www.OHLQ.com.
The Christmas holiday is a time for celebration and joy, but it’s also a time with increased fire risks. Listen and learn how you can protect your loved ones and home this holiday season. In this episode we're talking fire safety tips with Ohio State Fire Marshal Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Anita Metheny.
In this must-listen episode of Protecting What Matters, we discuss all of the great resources in our newly launched Holiday Gift Budgeting Guide from the Ohio Department of Commerce. Deputy Superintendent of the Division of Financial Institutions Rob Rutkowski shares examples of how you and your family can enjoy a festive holiday season with confidence and financial savvy. There are also plenty of tips that will help you choose thoughtful, cost-effective gifts for your loved ones while instilling important budgeting skills in your children. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your holidays not only joyful but also more financially secure.
In this discussion, we'll educate the audience so they better understand the opportunities available to 16- and 17-year-old students through the Ohio Manufacturing and Construction Mentorship Program. This episode will inform Ohioans about the opportunities available to those who consider careers in the skilled trades – and it will highlight how the program works, what the benefits are tostudents, and how the program benefits employers who participate. It also will direct listeners to where they can learn more about the program, whether they are teens or employers. Learn more by visiting Com.ohio.gov/mentorship
