California’s State Controller holds billions of dollars in unclaimed property: old bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts, stock, and safe deposit box contents. When someone files a claim, the Controller’s forms often require the claimant’s signature to be notarized. I recently notarized a claim packet like the one in the photo below, where an investigator was helping a property owner recover funds. Here is what you need to know before your appointment.
Need an unclaimed property form notarized?
I come to your home, office, hospital room, or care facility anywhere in LA, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.
When Does a California Unclaimed Property Claim Need a Notary?
The claim form itself tells you. Larger claims, generally $1,000 or more, and claims involving securities or the contents of a safe deposit box typically require a notarized signature. Small claims often do not. Read the instructions on the form you received from the State Controller’s Office, or ask the investigator or attorney who prepared it, and look for a notary section near the signature line.
What the Notary Does (and Doesn’t Do)
These forms usually use a jurat. That means the claimant signs in front of me and swears or affirms that the statements on the form are true. My job is to:
- Verify the signer’s identity with valid government-issued photo ID
- Administer the oath or affirmation
- Watch the signer sign and complete the notarial certificate
- Record the notarization in my journal
I do not verify the claim, decide who owns the property, or give advice about the claim. That is between you, the Controller’s Office, and anyone helping you with the claim.
What to Bring
- A current government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. See ID tips before you sign.
- The complete claim form, unsigned
- Any supporting documents the form asks for, such as proof of address or ownership
- If you are claiming for someone who has passed away, the documents the Controller asks for, such as a death certificate or court papers
Using an Investigator? Know Your Rights
You can file a claim yourself, for free, through the State Controller’s Office. Some people choose to use a private investigator who finds the property and handles the paperwork. Under California Code of Civil Procedure section 1582, an investigator’s fee is capped at 10% of the value of the property, and the agreement must be in writing and must disclose the property being recovered. Read the agreement carefully before you sign it, and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Claims for Seniors and Hospital Patients
Many of these claims belong to older adults or to families settling an estate. I regularly notarize at homes, assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, and hospitals. Learn more about our mobile notary services and estate planning notary service.
Schedule your notarization
Tell me where you are and when you would like to sign, and I will confirm a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every California unclaimed property claim need a notary?
No. The claim form states when notarization is required. Larger claims, generally $1,000 or more, and claims for securities or safe deposit box contents typically require it.
What kind of notarization is used on the claim form?
Usually a jurat. The claimant signs in front of the notary and swears or affirms that the statements on the form are true.
Can a notary help me fill out the claim?
A notary can notarize your signature but cannot give legal advice or decide how to answer the questions on the form.
How much can an unclaimed property investigator charge?
Under Code of Civil Procedure section 1582, the fee is capped at 10% of the value of the recovered property, and the agreement must be in writing.
Last updated October 2026.
Wet Ink Notary LLC is not a law firm and cannot give legal advice. Requirements are set by the California State Controller’s Office and can change, so follow the instructions on your claim form.