California unclaimed property: the official search

What to know about California

• California's program is run by the State Controller, not the Treasurer. Searching and claiming happen at claimit.ca.gov; program information and fraud alerts are on sco.ca.gov.
• The Controller's office states that searching and claiming through its website is always free, and that investigators ("heir finders") who offer to file for you are optional.

How to search and claim in California

1. Open the official site above — type the address yourself or use our link, rather than clicking ads in search results.
2. Search every name you've used, plus the names of family members you're entitled to claim for, and any business you owned.
3. Check the details listed with each match — usually the city or address on file and the company that reported it. A matching name alone doesn't make the property yours.
4. Start the claim on the official site and upload or mail the documents it asks for. Requirements depend on the amount and on whether you're the owner, an heir or a business representative.
5. Track the claim with the reference number the state gives you. Processing times vary from weeks to several months.

Before you claim

• Eligibility: you can claim property listed to you, or — with proof — property belonging to someone whose estate or business you represent.
• Proof: expect to show identity and a link to the address on file. Heirs typically need a death certificate and documents showing their right to inherit.
• No guarantees: a search may return nothing. That's normal, and new property is reported every year — search again periodically.

Search other states too

You can also search California together with other states at MissingMoney.com, the free multi-state search run on behalf of state programs. If you find a match, you will still file the claim with California.

People connected to California often also lived or worked in:

• Oregon
• Nevada
• Arizona

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