How to Claim Unclaimed Property in California
Found money in your name? Here's what you need to know before you file.
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.
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)
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)
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)
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 depending on the state's backlog.
Common Challenges
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, and signatures need proper notarization. Small errors lead to automatic denials.
Document Availability
Claims often require records from 10 - 20 years ago. Bank statements, employer documentation, and proof of previous addresses can be difficult to locate after years have passed.
Processing Time
State processing takes up to 180 days for standard claims. Complex situations can extend to 9 - 12+ months, with limited communication about status or timeline during review.
Finding All Properties
The state database only shows exact name matches. Name variations, misspellings, and maiden names require separate searches, making it easy to miss additional properties.
Two Ways to Claim
Here's how filing yourself compares to working with us:
Filing Yourself
Free, but requires significant time and effort
Find My Money
Licensed, bonded & background-checked team
How We Make This Simple
We've done this hundreds of times. Here's what changes:
We Find Everything
Our database access finds properties under name variations, misspellings, and maiden names. Most people have 2 - 3 claims they didn't know about.
Licensed & Bonded
California-licensed and bonded firm with background-checked team members. Your claim is protected by our professional bond and credentials.
We Know What Works
After 100+ successful claims, we know exactly what the state wants. Right forms, right format, right documentation. First time.
We Handle the Paperwork
Forms, notarization, filing, tracking. All of it. You sign a few things. That's it. We cover the notary fees.
We Track Everything
Direct line to the State Controller's office. We know exactly where your claim is and what's happening. You get regular updates.
We Appeal Denials
If something goes wrong (rare with our 98% success rate), we take it through the appeals process. No additional cost to you.
Ready to Skip the Headache?
Let us handle the paperwork while you wait for your check.
Prefer to File Yourself?
We understand. Here's what you'll need to get started:
- Search Tool: ClaimIt.ca.gov (California State Controller's official site)
- Claim Forms: Generated after you find property in your search results
- Expected Timeline: 180 days for standard claims, 9 - 12+ months for complex situations
- Support Line: (800) 992-4647 for State Controller questions
If things get complicated or you'd like help at any point, we're here. No judgment. We work with people at every stage of the process.