Detailed answer — how the process typically proceeds in California

When you submit a claim for unclaimed property to the California State Controller’s Office, the SCO initially reviews your claim. The program commonly lists a 90-day review or processing window. Once that 90-day period has passed, one of the following usually happens:

1. Claim approved and payment issued.

   If the SCO has enough documentation to verify your identity and ownership, it may approve the claim and issue payment. Payment methods vary (paper check or electronic transfer where available). The SCO will typically notify you by email or mail about approval and the payment method.

2. Request for additional documentation or clarification.

   The most common outcome after the initial review is that the SCO asks for more documents. Typical requests include a government ID, proof of prior address, account numbers, a recent statement showing the unclaimed account, or certified copies of a death certificate and letters testamentary or letters of administration when claiming as an estate representative.

3. Claim denied or closed.

   If the SCO finds the evidence inadequate, the claim may be denied. The SCO will usually send a written explanation of why the claim was denied and what, if anything, can be submitted to ask for reconsideration.

4. Holder or third party dispute.

   If the business or holder that reported the property disputes your claim (for example, the holder provides records showing a different owner or an active account), the SCO will review the competing records. Disputes can lengthen the process. The SCO may ask both sides for more records before deciding.

5. Special handling for certain property types.

   Some property needs extra steps before it can be released: securities, bearer instruments, safe-deposit box contents, and property attached to a court probate file often require additional verification or court orders. These cases commonly take longer than the standard 90-day review.

If your claim is approved, expect a notification with instructions for payment delivery or next steps. If the SCO requests more documents, responding quickly with clear, verifiable records usually speeds approval.

For background on California’s unclaimed property program, see the State Controller’s Office Unclaimed Property pages: California SCO — Unclaimed Property and the SCO claim guidance page: How to claim unclaimed property (SCO). The California Unclaimed Property Law is codified in the California Code of Civil Procedure (Unclaimed Property Law). For statutory language see the California legislative information site: Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §1500 et seq..

What you should do while you wait

• Monitor your claim status online at the SCO portal and check the email address you gave when filing.
• Prepare and keep copies of identity documents (government ID), proof of prior addresses, account statements, and, for estate claims, death certificates and letters of appointment.
• Respond promptly to any SCO requests for extra documentation. A complete, clearly organized response reduces delays.
• If your claim is denied, read the denial notice carefully. The notice usually explains whether you may refile or request reconsideration and what evidence is missing.
• If a holder contests your claim and you disagree, gather any records (bank statements, canceled checks, correspondence) that show your ownership and consider asking the SCO for guidance on the dispute resolution path.

When to consider legal help

Most routine claims are resolved without an attorney. Consider speaking with an attorney if:

• The account is large or complex (significant value or complicated securities).
• The SCO denies your claim and you believe the denial is incorrect despite supplying documents.
• A holder is asserting a competing ownership claim and the facts are disputed.

If you consult an attorney, bring all correspondence and documents the SCO requested or that you relied on when filing the claim.

Helpful hints

• Keep scanned copies of every document you submit and a copy of the claim form.
• Use a distinct subject line and include your claim number when contacting the SCO—this speeds staff review.
• Avoid paying third-party “finder” services without understanding their fees. The SCO allows individuals to file directly at no charge.
• For estate claims, get certified copies of probate paperwork early—these often take extra time to obtain but speed the SCO process when provided up front.
• If payment is delayed beyond the SCO’s communications, follow up in writing and ask for a case/status number you can reference.