California State Controller’s Office is currently holding an estimated $10 billion+ in unclaimed money that belongs to California residents. If you have ever lived, worked, or done business in California, you may have unclaimed funds waiting for you right now.
This page explains exactly how to search for and claim your unclaimed money in California through official government channels — completely free of charge.
How To Search for Unclaimed Money in California
Step 1: Go to the Official Search Website
California’s unclaimed property program is managed by the California State Controller’s Office through its Unclaimed Property Division. The official search website is:
This is the only official and free way to search for unclaimed property in California. Never pay anyone to search for you.
Step 2: Search Using Your Name
Enter your full legal name on the search page. Try variations including:
- Your current legal name
- Your maiden name or any previous married names
- Common misspellings of your name
- Names of deceased relatives who lived in California
- Your business name, if you have owned or operated a business in California
Step 3: Review Your Results
The search results will show any unclaimed property associated with your name. For each match, you will typically see:
- The name on the account
- The type of property (bank account, insurance, payroll, etc.)
- The company that reported the property
- The approximate value (some states do not show exact amounts)
- The last known address on file
Step 4: File Your Claim
If you find a match, follow the instructions on the California State Controller’s Office website to file your claim. Most claims in California can be started online. You will need to verify your identity and provide documentation proving you are the rightful owner.
What Documents Do You Need?
- Government-issued photo ID — driver’s license, passport, or military ID
- Proof of Social Security Number — SSN card, tax return, or W-2
- Proof of address — utility bill, bank statement, or tax document matching the address on file
- Proof of name change (if applicable) — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
Key Facts: Unclaimed Money in California
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Managing Agency | California State Controller’s Office |
| Division | Unclaimed Property Division |
| Estimated Unclaimed Total | $10 billion+ |
| Dormancy Period | 3 years |
| Official Search Website | www.sco.ca.gov/upd.html |
| Phone | (800) 992-4647 |
| Claim Deadline | None — held indefinitely |
| Cost | Free — always |
What You Need to Know About California
California holds more unclaimed property than almost any other state. The Controller’s Office returns hundreds of millions of dollars annually. Claims under $5,000 are typically processed faster.
Protect Yourself from Scams
- Never pay to search. Official government searches are always free.
- Never pay upfront fees to claim. Legitimate claims have no advance fees.
- Verify unsolicited letters directly through the California State Controller’s Office website.
- Use only official websites linked above to search and claim.
Search Other States
Search every state where you have ever lived, worked, or done business. Unclaimed property is reported to the state of your last known address.
Contact California State Controller’s Office
- Phone: (800) 992-4647
- Website: www.sco.ca.gov/upd.html