About Holder Reporting

The Unclaimed Property Law allows the State of California to reunite lost and abandoned property with its rightful owner(s) and to safeguard these properties from being used by private interests for personal gain.

What is unclaimed property?

Unclaimed property is generally defined as any financial asset that has been left inactive by the owner for a period of time specified by law, usually three years. The California Unclaimed Property Law does not address real estate or abandoned personal property.

Why must holders report unclaimed property?

California’s Unclaimed Property Law (California Code of Civil Procedure, section 1500 et seq.) was enacted to ensure that property is returned to its rightful owner(s) and to relieve holders of the burden and liability of carrying or maintaining the property. The law requires businesses to review their books and records annually to determine if they hold any reportable property and provides California citizens a single source, the State Controller’s Office (SCO), to search for unclaimed property.

Who must file an unclaimed property report?

Business associations, banking and financial organizations, and life insurance corporations
Non-profits, sole-proprietorships, and partnerships
Other entities holding property belonging to another

Resources

Unclaimed Property Laws and Regulations

Unclaimed Property Holder Handbook – Detailed guide on the reporting process

Reporting Quick Guides – Brief reference guides to assist holders with California's reporting process

Reporting Portal FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about how to submit reports using the online reporting portal

Video: Holder Reporting Portal: How to Register

Video: Holder Reporting Portal: How to Upload

Video – Holder Reporting Portal: Common Errors

Property Reporting Cycles – Charts used to determine when unclaimed property is reportable

Dormancy Periods Table – Dormancy periods for most frequently reported unclaimed property types