Sen. Bill Dodd: CA may owe you money

The State of California is holding over $8 billion in unclaimed property and money.

California's Unclaimed Property Law requires "holders" such as corporations, business associations, financial institutions, and insurance companies to annually report and deliver property to the State Controller's Office after there has been no customer contact for three years.

"This is money that belongs to California residents, and I encourage you to see if the state owes you money," said Senator Bill Dodd.

Often the owner forgets that the account exists, moves and does not leave a forwarding address, or the forwarding order expires. In some cases, the owner dies and the heirs have no knowledge of the property.

To find potential money, visit the State Controller's Office and search the Unclaimed Property Database for money that the state may owe you!

When filing a claim form, you will need the following documentation:

• A copy of current photo identification for each claimant
• A copy of a Social Security card or a tax identification number for each claimant
• Verification of reported address if different from current address
• Specific documentation relating to the type of property, such as original passbook, cashier's check, stock certificate, etc.