California Unclaimed Property: How to Find & Claim Your Money (2025 Guide)

Imagine finding out the State of California might owe you money—maybe from an old bank account, a forgotten paycheck, or even a long-lost insurance payout. It might sound too good to be true, but it’s not. The California State Controller’s Office currently holds billions of dollars in unclaimed funds, and some of it could have your name on it.

At Equity Capital Home Loans, we help Californians track down unclaimed property and, when it makes sense, even apply those recovered funds toward a home purchase or refinance. Let’s walk you through what California unclaimed property is, how to search for it, and how to claim what’s yours—step by step.

What Is California Unclaimed Property?

Unclaimed property refers to financial assets that have been left inactive or untouched for a certain period—usually three years. When the original owner can’t be contacted, California law requires businesses to turn the property over to the state.

Common Examples of Unclaimed Property:

• Dormant bank accounts or safe deposit boxes
  
• Uncashed checks and money orders
  
• Stocks, bonds, dividends
  
• Insurance payouts
  
• Utility deposits
  
• Wages from previous employers
  

Note: Real estate and vehicles are not considered unclaimed property under California law.

How Property Becomes “Unclaimed”

Assets go unclaimed when there's no contact or activity for an extended time. For example, if you move and forget to update your address with your bank, or if your employer sends you a final check that you never cash, those funds can eventually end up with the state.

How to Search for Unclaimed Property in California

Tracking down unclaimed money is easier than most people think. Here's how to start:

Step 1: Check the Official Database

Search using your full name in the California State Controller’s Office unclaimed property database. If you’ve changed your name or moved often, try a few variations.

Step 2: Verify Your Identity

If you find a match, you’ll need to confirm that you’re the rightful owner. That usually means submitting personal information like your Social Security number, previous addresses, or other documentation.

Step 3: Submit a Claim

Most claims can be submitted online. For larger claims or those involving deceased relatives, you may be asked for additional documentation like a death certificate, will, or power of attorney paperwork.

Why Californians Lose Track of Property

There are a few surprisingly common reasons this happens:

• Frequent moves – Mail from banks or employers may never reach you.
  
• Name changes – Especially after marriage or divorce, your accounts may not get updated.
  
• Forgotten accounts – It’s easy to lose track of old 401(k)s, utility deposits, or closed bank accounts.
  
• Lack of communication – Companies don’t always try too hard to track you down before handing your property to the state.
  

Scams & Fraud Alerts

Important reminder: Never pay to search or claim unclaimed property. The State Controller’s Office does not charge any fees. Be cautious of companies or individuals claiming they’ll recover your money—for a fee. You can do this on your own, and it’s free.

How Equity Capital Home Loans Can Help

We’re here to help you every step of the way—especially if those funds can improve your path to homeownership.

Here’s how we support our clients:

• Using Unclaimed Funds for Home Financing – Every dollar counts when you’re buying a home. Found money can go toward a down payment or help you qualify for better terms.
  
• Free Claim Assistance – If the claim process feels overwhelming, we’ll walk you through it.
  
• Mortgage Pre-Approval After Claim – Once your funds are in hand, we can help you get pre-approved, factoring in your boosted savings or equity position.
  

Start Your Search Now

There’s no downside to checking. It’s fast, free, and you could be sitting on money you didn’t even know existed. At Equity Capital, we encourage all our clients to search for unclaimed property before applying for a mortgage or refinance—it could make a real difference.

Need help?

We offer:

• A downloadable claim checklist
  
• Personalized support with the claim process
  
• Pre-vetted financing options for when your funds come through
  

Found money could help you become a homeowner sooner than you think.

FAQs

1. Is there a deadline to claim property?‍

No. California holds unclaimed property indefinitely until it’s claimed.

2. How much unclaimed money does CA hold?‍

Billions of dollars—and the list grows every year as more unclaimed accounts are reported.

3. Are unclaimed property searches free?‍

Yes. The State of California does not charge for searches or claims.

4. Can I claim for a deceased relative?‍

Yes. You can submit a claim on behalf of a deceased relative if you’re a legal heir or have proper documentation.

5. What’s the largest unclaimed sum in CA?‍

There have been individual claims worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, but even small checks can make a difference.

6. Will the state notify me if I have unclaimed property?‍

Rarely. It’s your responsibility to check the database periodically.

7. What if my claim is denied?‍

You can appeal or submit additional documentation. Denials are often due to incomplete paperwork.

8. Are unclaimed funds taxable?‍

They may be, depending on the source of the funds. Talk to a tax advisor for specifics.

9. How often should I check for unclaimed property?‍

Once a year is a good habit—especially after major life changes like moving, changing jobs, or losing a loved one.

10. Why partner with Equity Capital on claims?‍

Because we think bigger. We help you recover what's yours and show you how to use those funds to improve your home financing strategy.

Want help finding your funds or planning your next move with them?Contact Equity Capital Home Loans today. Let’s make your money work for you.