Protecting What Matters: A Podcast by the Ohio Department of Commerce

The Division of Unclaimed Funds wants to reunite Ohioans with their forgotten money and is making a special push for that in February. The Division is safeguarding more than $3 billion in unclaimed money and property in Ohio. Some of it may belong to you or your loved ones. February 1st in National Unclaimed Funds Day. In this episode of Protecting what Matters, Outreach Program Manager Susie Wagner explains what you could find if you come and claim your money. For more information, visit: unclaimedfunds.ohio.gov

Looking to buy a new home in 2023? Want to know how the homebuying process works? In this episode of Protecting What Matters we're helping you every step of the way as you buy a home- including how to select a real estate agent, lender, and more. For more information visit com.ohio.gov/real

It's a new year! Did you make a resolution that had to do with money? Many people did, and in this episode of Protecting What Matters we're helping you review your spending and investing habits and create a better plan for 2023. From the performance of your 401(k) and turning it around in the new year to knowing how to review what you spent last year and creating a better budget amid inflation, we have advice you can't afford to miss with our experts! For more details visit: https://bit.ly/OhioCommerceUnderstandingFinances

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal distributes millions of dollars in grant funding each year to fire departments across the state. This support leads to better equipment, apparatus and technology to better protect Ohio’s communities. Learn more about the grant and loan programs on our website at com.ohio.gov/grants.

You’ve probably not put a lot of thought into how you’re protected when you buy bedding, upholstered furniture and stuffed toys- but Commerce is critical in keeping you in-the-know and safe within this massive industry. In this episode we’re tackling all the items in your house that are… stuffed! Including those presents you’re about to give during the holidays!

Are you concerned materials inside a product you purchased? If so, email [email protected] to file a complaint.

'Tis the season for holiday shopping and, unfortunately, scams. With a longer shopping season, and an increase in budget-focused consumers, scammers are working overtime. In this episode of Protecting What Matters, our Division of Financial Institutions' shares ways to protect yourself from potential financial fraud. See additional financial literacy resources at the Division's Office of Consumer Affairs webpage: https://bit.ly/OCAResources

With Fall arriving that means three big holidays are just around the corner – Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas – and with them comes some associated fire risks. The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal provides prevention resources to keep families safe this time of year. You’ll find best practices in this latest episode and additional fire prevention resources at the State Fire Marshal’s website: com.ohio.gov/fire

OHLQ brings you the people and passion behind some of your favorite spirits – from a fourth-generation Ohio farmer to award-winning distilleries. The Seed to Sip series reminds us that found in every glass of your favorite spirit is a story of agriculture, art, and science.  https://bit.ly/3UY9qg7

For many students, going away to college gives them the freedom to make their own choices, but when it comes to living in on and off-campus housing, it’s important for students and their parents to keep safety top of mind. During this Campus Safety Month, Ohio’s Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal provides prevention resources to keep students safe. See additional fire prevention resources at the State Fire Marshal’s website: com.ohio.gov/fire

September is National Realtor Safety Month. We’re sharing important information on how to sell your home with safety in mind. We provide some practices to our licensed salespersons in an effort to keep everyone safe in the home buying/selling process. For more information please, visit our website www.com.ohio.gov/real .