Look for the right record
Search your current and former names. Compare the holder, property type, and address to your own history; a name match alone is only a candidate.
Dormant bank & savings accounts
The account you opened, then forgot.
Checking and savings accounts, CDs, and safe-deposit contents can go inactive after years without contact.
Official sourceFree to searchVerify before filing
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Think former banksOld address · prior name · closed branchWhat it is
The kind of property people often forget
A dormant account is money or property at a financial institution that has gone inactive and lost contact with its owner. It can include checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and some safe-deposit contents.
How it becomes unclaimed
Why the State may be holding it
After the required dormancy period, a bank may report the property to California. People often miss these records after moving, changing names, or forgetting an account opened for a prior job or life stage.
How to find and claim it
Start with the record, then verify the owner
Prove it is yours
Compare the bank or holder and address to your own history. If it lines up, the State will ask for identity and ownership documentation. Never provide a bank login to search for unclaimed property.
Related property types
Keep exploring
For the full process, see How Unclaimit works or the California unclaimed-property guide.
Questions
A few things to know
What makes a bank account dormant?
An account may become dormant when there is no owner contact or activity for the period required by applicable rules. Banks can report checking, savings, CDs, and some safe-deposit contents to the State.
Could an old account from another address be mine?
Yes, possibly. Compare the record with previous addresses, former names, and banks you used. The record is still only a candidate until ownership is verified.
A safer way to start
Search first. Decide later.
Candidate, not promise
A search result is a possible match. Ownership is verified before anything is filed.
DIY is always available
You can claim directly through the State for free, whether or not you use a service.
Minimal information
Searching does not require your SSN or bank login.
Official records
The California State Controller is the source to verify against.
See whether your name appears
Search official records for free. A result is only a starting point; you decide what to do after reviewing it.