California Unclaimed Property Search: Claim Your Money Free

Over $11.9 billion in unclaimed property is currently being held by the California State Controller’s Office, that’s more than 70 million accounts waiting for their rightful owners or heirs. This money comes from dormant bank accounts, uncashed payroll checks, insurance payouts, utility refunds, stocks, dividends, and safe deposit box contents. Good news: There is NO deadline to claim, the process is 100% FREE when you do it yourself, and California returns over $1 million every single day to residents just like you. Common types of California unclaimed funds: • Forgotten savings & checking accounts • Uncashed payroll or rebate checks • Insurance benefits & matured policies • Utility and phone deposits • Stocks, dividends & mutual funds • Safe deposit box contents (jewelry, coins, documents) How to Search & Claim Unclaimed Money in California – Step by Step (2025) 1. Go to the official California unclaimed property site: https://claimit.ca.gov 2. Enter your last name (and first name if common), try maiden names, previous names, and old addresses 3. Review the results, each listing shows the property type, holder (e.g., Wells Fargo, PG&E), and amount range 4. Click “Claim This Property” and complete the free e-Claim form online 5. Upload proof of identity address (driver’s license, SSN card, utility bill) 6. Heirs: also upload death certificate + proof of relationship 7. Track your claim status online, most claims under $5,000 are processed in weeks; larger ones 1–6 months 8. Receive your check or direct deposit, completely free! Pro Tips to Find Even More Money • Search under every variation of your name and past addresses • Check for deceased relatives (you can claim as heir) • Use the national site MissingMoney.com to search ALL states at once • The database is updated twice a year (June December) – check back regularly Frequently Asked Questions Is searching and claiming really free? Yes. The official California site never charges fees. Avoid any company asking for upfront payment or more than 10% (California caps finder fees at 10%). How long does it take to get paid? Simple claims: 2–12 weeks. Claims over $5,000 or involving estates: 90–180 days. Can I claim money for a deceased parent or spouse? Absolutely. Provide death certificate + proof you’re the legal heir or executor. What if I moved out of California? You can still claim, just use your current address when filing.