How to Claim Unclaimed Property in California
Found money in your name? Here's what you need to know before you file—and why most people get stuck.
The DIY Process (If You Want to Try Yourself)
Here's exactly what's involved in claiming unclaimed property yourself in California
Search the State Database
Visit the California State Controller's unclaimed property website. Search by your name and city or zip code.
The database doesn't let you search by address. You'll only find properties under exact name matches. Maiden names, nicknames, and misspellings won't show up unless you search each variation separately. Most people miss 2-3 additional claims this way.
Gather Required Documentation
You'll need proof of identity, previous addresses, and documents proving ownership. Requirements vary widely by claim type and can include:
- Multiple forms of government-issued photo ID
- Proof of previous addresses (utility bills, lease agreements)
- Social Security number verification
- Original or certified copies of supporting documents
- Notarized affidavits if any documents are missing
- Death certificates, marriage certificates, or divorce decrees (if applicable)
Most people don't have 10-20 year old records. Tracking them down takes weeks or months. Many give up at this step.
Complete the Claim Forms
Download and fill out the required claim forms. The state requires different forms depending on your situation:
- Property owner claims
- Heir or estate claims (if owner is deceased)
- Business entity claims
- Multiple owner claims (each person must file separately)
One wrong checkbox, missing field, or incorrect format = automatic denial. Most people file 2-3 times before getting it right.
Get Everything Notarized
Most claims require notarized signatures, especially for higher-value properties and certain claim types like stocks, securities, and safe deposit boxes. You'll need to:
- Find a certified California notary
- Bring valid government-issued photo ID
- Sign in front of the notary (pre-signed forms are rejected)
- Pay notary fees ($15-30 per document)
Forgot to notarize one signature? The entire claim gets rejected and you start over. Many people don't realize which signatures need notarization until after denial.
Submit and Wait
Upload your completed packet electronically or mail it to the State Controller's office. Then wait up to 180 days (6 months) for processing. Complex claims can take 9-12+ months, and appeals can stretch into years.
You get a claim ID to check status, but the state provides no timeline until they've reviewed your claim. Limited communication means you're mostly in the dark about where things stand or if there are issues.
Common Challenges People Face
Based on helping 100+ Californians, here's what makes DIY claims difficult
Technical Requirements
The state has specific formatting requirements. Form versions change, address formats must match their records exactly. Small errors lead to automatic denials.
Missing Documentation
You need proof of residence from years or decades ago. Most people don't have old utility bills, lease agreements, or employment records anymore.
Multiple Properties
The database often shows one property, but there may be 2-3 more under slight name variations. Each requires a separate claim.
Long Wait Times
Processing takes 6-12+ months with minimal communication. You won't know if something's wrong until months later.
Rejection & Appeals
If your claim gets denied, you have to figure out what went wrong, gather more documentation, and start over. Appeals add another year.
No Expert Guidance
The state can't give advice on completing your claim. Customer service lines have long hold times and limited help.
DIY vs. Professional Recovery
See the difference between filing yourself and using our service
- Most claims get denied without proper notarization and documentation
- Could spend years in appeals if your claim is rejected
- Miss additional claims you don't know exist across databases
- Pay for your own notary and handle all state communication
- Average 6-12 months processing with no updates
- 98% success rate — we know exactly what the state requires
- Advanced data matching uncovers additional claims most firms miss
- We pay for the notary and handle all paperwork and communication
- Direct communication — years of experience with State Controller
- Zero upfront fees — you only pay when you receive your money
Ready to Get Your Money Back?
We handle everything from start to finish. No upfront costs, no risk.