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.
Uncashed & undelivered checks
The check that never made it to your account.
A paycheck, refund, insurance check, or vendor payment can become unclaimed when it was never cashed or the issuer could not deliver it.
Official sourceFree to searchVerify before filing
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Look for the holderEmployer · insurer · vendor · issuerWhat it is
The kind of property people often forget
These are payments that were issued for a person or business but were never cashed, deposited, or delivered. They often come from an old employer, insurer, retailer, landlord, or vendor.
How it becomes unclaimed
Why the State may be holding it
When an issuer cannot reach the payee and the check remains outstanding through the applicable dormancy period, it may report the value to the California State Controller. Moving or changing banks is a common reason.
How to find and claim it
Start with the record, then verify the owner
Prove it is yours
If the candidate fits your history, the State will require proof of identity and a connection to the holder or address. Keep old pay stubs, policy records, or correspondence if you have them.
Related property types
Keep exploring
Dormant bank accountsLearn more →Life insurance & annuitiesLearn more →Refunds & depositsLearn more →
For the full process, see How Unclaimit works or the California unclaimed-property guide.
Questions
A few things to know
What checks become unclaimed property?
Paychecks, refund checks, insurance checks, vendor checks, and other payments that were issued but never cashed or delivered may eventually be reported to the State.
How do I verify an uncashed check is mine?
Compare the holder, property type, and address with your employment, insurance, vendor, or purchase history. A matching name alone is not enough.
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.