How to find unclaimed money in California
A step-by-step guide to searching the California State Controller's Office database and filing your claim. Around 49,500 people search for unclaimed money in California every month — here is how to do it for free.
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Go to the official state portal
Visit the California State Controller's Office website. This is the only official source for unclaimed property in California.
Search by your full legal name
Enter your first and last name exactly as it appears on government IDs. Try variations (maiden name, middle initial, common misspellings) if the first search returns no results.
Verify the match is yours
Look for a match with your address history. Unclaimed property records usually include the last known address, which helps confirm the funds belong to you.
Gather required documents
Most claims need a government-issued photo ID and proof of the associated address. Business claims require additional documentation like articles of incorporation.
Submit your claim online or by mail
California allows electronic filing for most claims under a certain dollar threshold. Higher-value claims or claims by heirs may require notarized paper forms.
Track your claim status
After submission, you'll receive a claim reference number. Processing times vary by state and claim complexity — typically 30 to 180 days.
California unclaimed money — frequently asked questions
Common questions about searching and claiming unclaimed property in California.
How do I search for unclaimed money in California?+
Go to the California State Controller's Office at https://scaomail.sco.ca.gov/ucp/ and search with your full legal name and any former names or previous California addresses. The search is free and is the only official source for California unclaimed property.
Is there a fee to claim unclaimed property in California?+
No. Searching the California State Controller's Office database and filing a claim are both free. You never need to pay a finder's fee to recover your own money in California.
How long does a California unclaimed property claim take?+
Most straightforward California claims are processed within 30 to 180 days. Claims involving heirs, businesses, or notarised documents take longer. You can check status with the California State Controller's Office at (800) 992-4647.
How much unclaimed money is there in California?+
California holds hundreds of millions of dollars in unclaimed property, and roughly 49,500 people look for it online every month. Balances are held indefinitely until the owner or their heirs claim them.
Official contact info
California State Controller's Office
Phone: (800) 992-4647
Website: https://scaomail.sco.ca.gov/ucp/
Find the California money that's already yours.
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