Unclaimed negotiable instruments such as certified checks, money orders, and travelers checks can represent a forgotten but significant financial asset. If you’ve discovered that one of these instruments is being held by the California State Controller’s Office (CA SCO) as unclaimed property, you’re in the right place. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of claiming these funds, the documentation you need, and how to avoid common pitfalls along the way.
Whether you’re an individual or part of an organization, the process can seem complex, but following this guide will help you claim what is rightfully yours in the most efficient way possible.
Step 1: Understanding What Unclaimed Negotiable Instruments Are
A negotiable instrument is a written document that promises payment to the holder. The most common types include:
Certified Checks: A certified check is guaranteed by a bank, confirming that the account holder has sufficient funds to cover the amount of the check.
Money Orders: Similar to a check, a money order is a prepaid financial instrument, often used to make secure payments.
Travelers Checks: Once widely used for secure payments while traveling, travelers checks function much like cash and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
When these instruments go uncashed or unclaimed for an extended period, the funds are turned over to the California State Controller’s Office. These items then become “unclaimed property” and are held until claimed by the rightful owner.
Step 2: Required Documentation to Claim Unclaimed Negotiable Instruments
The CA SCO requires specific documentation to verify that you are the rightful owner of the unclaimed negotiable instrument. Gathering the correct paperwork is the most important step in the claims process.
- Original Negotiable Instrument
The easiest and most direct way to claim unclaimed negotiable instruments is by submitting the **original certified check, money order, or travelers check**. If you have the original document, this will serve as your primary proof of ownership. - What to Do If the Original Instrument Is Unavailable
If the original instrument is lost, don’t worry—you can still make a claim. However, you will need to provide additional documentation to verify ownership. Here are some options:Proof of Purchase or Transaction: A receipt or bank statement showing the purchase of the negotiable instrument can serve as a substitute if the original is lost.Correspondence from the Issuer: If you received correspondence (such as a letter or email) from the bank or company that issued the negotiable instrument, this can also be used to support your claim.Additionally, you will be required to submit a*Declaration of Loss form. This form is essentially a legal statement affirming that the original instrument was lost, destroyed, or stolen, and that no one else has redeemed it. The CA SCO will provide further instructions on how to complete this form. - Multiple Owners
If there are multiple owners listed on the negotiable instrument or account, each owner must participate in the claims process. That means:Each claimant must sign the claim form: All parties listed as co-owners of the negotiable instrument must sign the claim form, acknowledging their claim to the funds.Each claimant must provide required documentation: This includes proof of identification and any other documents requested by the CA SCO.The coordination between co-owners can sometimes cause delays, so it’s important to communicate early and ensure all claimants are on the same page.
Step 3: Filing Your Claim with the CA SCO
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documentation, you’re ready to file your claim with the California State Controller’s Office. There are two ways to submit your claim: online or by mail.
Filing a Claim Online
- Visit the CA SCO Unclaimed Property Website
Start by going to the official [CA SCO Unclaimed Property webpage](http://www.sco.ca.gov/upd_claiming.html). This website allows you to search for unclaimed property under your name or the names of co-owners. - Search for Your Property
Enter the relevant information, such as your name and the type of unclaimed property. If the system finds a match, you can initiate the claim directly from the website. - Generate and Complete the Claim Form
Once you locate the unclaimed negotiable instrument, the CA SCO will provide a claim form. Complete the form with accurate information and include all required details about the instrument. - Submit Supporting Documentation
Upload the required documents, including the original instrument (if available), proof of purchase, or any other supporting documentation. The system allows you to securely upload files, ensuring your information is protected.Filing a Claim by MailIf you prefer to file your claim by mail, follow these steps:
- Download the Claim Form
Visit the [CA SCO website](http://www.sco.ca.gov) and download the appropriate claim form. Complete the form with the requested information about the negotiable instrument. - Attach Supporting Documentation
Be sure to include copies of the original instrument (if available), proof of purchase, and any required identification documents. Attach the Declaration of Loss form if the original instrument is lost. - Mail the Form and Documents
Send the completed claim form and supporting documents to the following address:
State Controller’s Office Unclaimed Property Division P.O. Box 942850 Sacramento, CA 94250-5873
Step 4: What Happens After You Submit Your Claim?
After submitting your claim, the California State Controller’s Office will begin reviewing your documentation. The process involves verifying your ownership of the negotiable instrument and ensuring that all documents are complete and accurate.
Here’s what to expect during the review process:
- Verification of Documentation*
The CA SCO will verify that the documents you submitted match the unclaimed negotiable instrument on file. This includes checking the original instrument (if provided) or verifying the proof of purchase and Declaration of Loss. - . Processing Time
The time it takes to process a claim can vary, depending on the complexity of the case and the volume of claims the CA SCO is handling. Generally, claims take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If additional information is required, the CA SCO will contact you for further details. - Approval and Payment
Once your claim is approved, the CA SCO will release the funds to you. Payment is typically made via check, although other payment methods may be available depending on the nature of the unclaimed property. - Handling Multiple Owners
If the negotiable instrument has multiple owners, the CA SCO will coordinate with all claimants. Each owner must provide their documentation and sign the claim form before any funds can be disbursed. Ensure that all co-owners are responsive to the CA SCO’s requests to avoid unnecessary delays
Step 5: What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied
If your claim is denied, don’t panic. Claims are sometimes denied because of incomplete documentation or failure to meet specific requirements. Here’s what you can do:
- Review the Reason for Denial
The CA SCO will provide an explanation for the denial. Carefully review the reason and determine if there’s missing or incorrect information that can be corrected. - Submit Additional Documentation
If the claim was denied due to missing documentation, gather any additional proof requested by the CA SCO and resubmit your claim. - Reach Out for Assistance
If you’re unsure why your claim was denied or need help gathering the required documentation, contact the CA SCO’s Unclaimed Property Division at (916) 323-2827 for guidance.Final Thoughts: Claiming Unclaimed Negotiable Instruments in CaliforniaClaiming unclaimed certified checks, money orders, and travelers checks in California doesn’t have to be a complicated process. By gathering the right documentation and following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll increase your chances of a successful claim.Be sure to provide all required documents—whether it’s the original instrument, proof of purchase, or a Declaration of Loss—to ensure a smooth process. And if you’re working with multiple owners, communicate early to make sure everyone has the necessary paperwork and signatures ready.Don’t let unclaimed funds sit with the state—take action today and reclaim what’s rightfully yours! If you have any questions or need additional assistance, the California State Controller’s Office is available to help you through the process.
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