Your comprehensive guide to finding and claiming unclaimed property in California
The State of California, under the stewardship of Controller Malia M. Cohen, is dedicated to reuniting unclaimed property with its rightful owners. From forgotten bank accounts to uncashed checks, billions of dollars in unclaimed assets are waiting to be returned. The Controller's Office safeguards this property until it is claimed, no matter how long it takes.
Unclaimed property includes items such as:
These assets are turned over to the state after a period of inactivity when the owner cannot be contacted.
Visit the California State Controller's unclaimed property website to begin your search.
Enter your name or property ID number into the search bar. Narrow your results further by including your address or city of residence.
After locating your property, review the details and initiate the claim process. You can either:
For most claims, you'll need:
For complex claims, submit the additional required documents to the California State Controller's Office.
California allows you to monitor your claim's progress online using the reference number provided during submission.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your claim, the Controller's Office is here to help.
No, claiming property in California is completely free. Avoid third-party services that charge fees for this service.
An eClaim is a faster way to claim your funds online. It's available for straightforward claims that do not require additional documentation.
Yes, businesses and estates can claim unclaimed property. Additional documentation may be required to prove ownership.
Take a moment to search for unclaimed property in California. Whether it's a forgotten paycheck, an unclaimed rebate, or a long-lost safe deposit box, it's worth checking.
Search California Unclaimed Property