California-Specific Agencies and Programs
How does California handle unclaimed property?
Short answer
The California State Controller's Office holds unclaimed financial property — dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, unclaimed insurance benefits. Search at claimit.ca.gov. There is no deadline to claim. If you find unclaimed property in the deceased's name, the estate can claim it with…
What this usually means
The California State Controller's Office holds unclaimed financial property — dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, unclaimed insurance benefits. Search at claimit.ca.gov. There is no deadline to claim. If you find unclaimed property in the deceased's name, the estate can claim it with a death certificate and proof of authority.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.