You could be missing out: See if you're owed part of $2.3 million in unclaimed property
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Did you know there could be money or valuable assets in your name—just sitting unclaimed with the state?
It might sound far-fetched, but for thousands of people in a certain state, it’s true.
The California State Controller’s Office has announced that $2.3 million in unclaimed property is waiting to be returned to rightful owners across all 58 counties—including right here in Northern California.
Unclaimed property includes assets that businesses or financial institutions couldn’t return to the rightful owner after a certain period, typically three years.
These assets are then transferred to the state, which holds them until someone claims them.
Examples of unclaimed property include:
Life gets busy—it’s easy to forget an old account, move without updating your address, or miss a benefit after a family member passes.
That’s why it’s worth checking—even if you’ve looked before.
Here are the top 10 counties with the most unclaimed property:
Even if your county isn’t listed, there’s unclaimed property throughout the state.
It only takes a moment to check.
The State Controller’s Office has a free, easy-to-use website: claimit.ca.gov.
Just enter your name—or previous names you’ve used—and the system will show if you have property waiting.
If you do, you can file a claim online.
You’ll need to provide some proof of identity and your connection to the asset, but the process is simple.
State Controller Malia M. Cohen emphasized that returning money to Californians is a key priority:
"Safeguarding and reuniting Californians with their rightful assets—including those held by county entities—is a core mission of the State Controller’s Office."
And it’s not just about individuals.
Reclaiming these funds can help families, small businesses, and communities thrive.
Unlike some states, California does not take ownership of your unclaimed property.
There’s no expiration date—it will remain held for you or your heirs indefinitely.
Still, the sooner you claim, the sooner you can put it to use—whether it’s extra savings, helping a loved one, or even planning a long-awaited trip.
New property is added regularly.
If it’s been a year or more since your last search, it might be time to try again.
Many people have no idea they’re owed money.
Consider sharing this with family, friends, or neighbors—especially those who have moved, changed jobs, or lost track of old accounts.
Visit claimit.ca.gov to see if you or someone you know has unclaimed property waiting.
It only takes a few minutes—and you might just uncover a pleasant surprise!
Read next: Avoid a financial nightmare: This couple's $14,100 fine reveals a shocking rule you didn't know
We’d love to hear about it! If you’ve ever recovered unclaimed money or assets, share your story in the comments. Your experience might help someone else take the first step.
It might sound far-fetched, but for thousands of people in a certain state, it’s true.
The California State Controller’s Office has announced that $2.3 million in unclaimed property is waiting to be returned to rightful owners across all 58 counties—including right here in Northern California.
Unclaimed property includes assets that businesses or financial institutions couldn’t return to the rightful owner after a certain period, typically three years.
These assets are then transferred to the state, which holds them until someone claims them.
Thousands of Californians may have unclaimed money or property waiting to be claimed through the State Controller’s Office. Image Source: Pexels / Pixabay.
Examples of unclaimed property include:
- Uncashed checks (tax refunds, dividends, payroll)
- Forgotten savings or checking accounts
- Stocks and bonds
- Insurance policy benefits
- Safe deposit box contents
- Utility deposits or refunds
Life gets busy—it’s easy to forget an old account, move without updating your address, or miss a benefit after a family member passes.
That’s why it’s worth checking—even if you’ve looked before.
Where is the money?
Here are the top 10 counties with the most unclaimed property:
- San Francisco: $562,112.46
- Los Angeles: $492,415.70
- Riverside: $192,521.35
- San Mateo: $181,443.18
- San Bernardino: $96,244.66
- Ventura: $80,629.68
- Fresno: $78,137.74
- Santa Clara: $72,234.78
- Santa Barbara: $68,578.52
- Sacramento: $68,369.19
Even if your county isn’t listed, there’s unclaimed property throughout the state.
It only takes a moment to check.
Also read: Unlock hidden benefits! Discover the retirement perks your bank doesn’t advertise
How to check if you’re owed anything
The State Controller’s Office has a free, easy-to-use website: claimit.ca.gov.
Just enter your name—or previous names you’ve used—and the system will show if you have property waiting.
If you do, you can file a claim online.
You’ll need to provide some proof of identity and your connection to the asset, but the process is simple.
Also read: Is your money trapped? Find out why Wells Fargo has started freezing bank accounts.
Helpful tips when searching:
- Try variations of your name, including with and without middle initials
- Look up relatives who may have passed—you might be eligible to claim on their behalf
- Check for business names if you’ve ever owned a company
Also read: Is your bank on the list? See if you qualify for a cash payout from this $4.5 million settlement!
Why it’s worth claiming
State Controller Malia M. Cohen emphasized that returning money to Californians is a key priority:
"Safeguarding and reuniting Californians with their rightful assets—including those held by county entities—is a core mission of the State Controller’s Office."
And it’s not just about individuals.
Reclaiming these funds can help families, small businesses, and communities thrive.
Also read: Personal property is becoming a target in a protest wave no one saw coming
What happens if you don’t claim it?
Unlike some states, California does not take ownership of your unclaimed property.
There’s no expiration date—it will remain held for you or your heirs indefinitely.
Still, the sooner you claim, the sooner you can put it to use—whether it’s extra savings, helping a loved one, or even planning a long-awaited trip.
Even if you’ve checked before—it’s worth checking again
New property is added regularly.
If it’s been a year or more since your last search, it might be time to try again.
Many people have no idea they’re owed money.
Consider sharing this with family, friends, or neighbors—especially those who have moved, changed jobs, or lost track of old accounts.
Visit claimit.ca.gov to see if you or someone you know has unclaimed property waiting.
It only takes a few minutes—and you might just uncover a pleasant surprise!
Read next: Avoid a financial nightmare: This couple's $14,100 fine reveals a shocking rule you didn't know
We’d love to hear about it! If you’ve ever recovered unclaimed money or assets, share your story in the comments. Your experience might help someone else take the first step.
