State guide · 4 min read
California unclaimed property: how to search and claim
Californians have one of the largest unclaimed property balances in the country. If you have ever lived, worked, or banked in California, there may be money waiting in your name. Searching is free on the official site run by the State Controller's Office.
Where to search
Use the official site only: sco.ca.gov. Also run a multi-state search on MissingMoney.com, and check every other state you have lived in on our state list.
What you might find
- Old bank balances and uncashed paychecks
- Utility, rental, and security deposits
- Insurance payouts and refunds
- Stocks, dividends, and safe deposit box contents
- Uncashed class action settlement checks
How to claim in California
- Search your name, past names, and any businesses you owned.
- Select the matching properties and start a claim.
- Verify your identity with photo ID and any information the state asks for.
- Prove the address on the record with an old bill, statement, or lease.
- Submit and track your claim on the official site.
Search tips
- Search last name only, then narrow down.
- Try maiden names, misspellings, and old addresses.
- Search relatives who have passed away if you may be an heir.
- Search again once or twice a year, since new property is reported regularly.
Do not pay a finder
Finders may offer to recover your money for a percentage. Claiming directly from the state is free. See how to find unclaimed money in your name for federal sources too.
Money you can still claim
Unclaimed property holds money already paid out. Open settlements are money you can claim before a deadline:
- Concora Credit - Unwanted Calls $250 - $650 · by Oct 19
- VSL Pharmaceuticals - Probiotics $20 Per Unit · by Oct 20
- Lands’ End - Data Breach $60 - $5,000 · by Oct 22
- Equinox - Data Breach $100 - $5,000 · by Oct 23
- TED Foundation - Data Privacy $5 · by Oct 26
Frequently asked questions
Is the California unclaimed property search free?
Yes. Searching and claiming through the State Controller's Office is free. You never need to pay a finder or a website to get your money.
How long does a California unclaimed property claim take?
Simple claims with matching ID and address can be paid within weeks. Claims that need extra documents, or that involve an estate, can take months.
Is there a deadline to claim unclaimed money in California?
States generally hold unclaimed property for the owner indefinitely, so you can usually claim at any time. Check the official site for any specifics.
What if I lived in California but moved away?
Search the official site anyway. Property is reported to the state of the last known address, so money from your time there stays with the state you left.