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.
Refunds & deposits
The small refund that never came back.
Utility and rental deposits, overpayments, and refund checks are common sources of unclaimed property.
Official sourceFree to searchVerify before filing
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Search old addressesUtility · landlord · overpaymentWhat it is
The kind of property people often forget
These records cover money a business or agency owed back to you but did not successfully return. The amount may be modest, but these records are common and can add up.
How it becomes unclaimed
Why the State may be holding it
If a company cannot deliver a refund or deposit to the owner and the property remains unclaimed through the applicable dormancy period, it may be sent to the State Controller.
How to find and claim it
Start with the record, then verify the owner
Prove it is yours
Use the holder and address to connect the record to a former rental, utility account, or payment. The State still verifies identity and ownership; a matching street address is helpful but not conclusive by itself.
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
Are refunds and deposits really reported as unclaimed property?
They can be. Utility and rental deposits, overpayments, and refund checks that were not returned to the owner may eventually be reported after the applicable period.
Why are these records easy to miss?
They are often smaller amounts tied to a former rental, utility account, or address. Search former addresses and compare the holder with your own history.
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.