California-Based Claim Guidance
Not sure what you need to file? We provide a free eligibility check and a document checklist, plus optional help preparing your claim packet.
California Investigator Agreement (Official SCO Forms)
California provides standard investigator agreement forms through the State Controller’s Office. If you choose to work with an investigator, download the appropriate form below:
Standard Investigator Agreement – Abandoned Property (PDF) (most claims)
Standard Investigator Agreement – Estates (PDF) (deceased owner / estate claims)
Transparency: You can file an unclaimed property claim directly with the State Controller at no cost. Our service is optional assistance to help you prepare and submit a complete claim packet.
Unclaimed property refers to funds held by a state on behalf of individuals or businesses (such as refunds, deposits, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, and other assets). We help you:
Identify possible matches using public databases
Verify ownership and required documentation
Provide a clear checklist of what to submit
Guide you through the claim submission process
You may have unclaimed property if you’ve moved, changed names, or had older accounts. Examples include:
Refund checks and overpayments
Utility/security deposits
Uncashed payroll checks
Insurance proceeds
Bank accounts and cashier’s checks
Escrow-related refunds (varies
Search & identify possible matches (we help verify it’s likely you)
Confirm what documents are required based on the property type and the address on record
Prepare a clean claim packet (ID + proof + supporting documents)
Submit the claim and respond to any follow-up requests from the agency
Requirements vary, but most claims ask for:
Government-issued photo ID
Proof of current address (and sometimes proof of a previous address that matches the reported property)
Documents that connect you to the property (depends on type)
If your name changed: supporting documents (ex: marriage certificate / court documents)
If the owner is deceased, you may need documents showing your relationship and legal authority to claim (requirements vary by situation and claim type).