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How long does a claim take?
From your first search to receiving your check — here's a realistic timeline for the entire process.
Timeline overview
The total time from search to payment depends on the type and complexity of your claim. Here's what each stage looks like:
Instant
Search & results — Enter your name and address. Results appear immediately with match scores and property details.
5 minutes
Sign up & fee agreement — Create your free account, review your matches, and sign the fee agreement for any claims you want to pursue.
Within 7 days
We file your claim — myMoneyCA prepares all required SCO forms and files all required documents with the SCO on your behalf.
30 – 60 days
Simple cash claims — Straightforward claims involving bank accounts, checks, or refunds are typically processed fastest.
90 – 180 days
Complex claims — Heir claims, claims with multiple owners, or those requiring additional documentation take longer for SCO review.
Up to 1 year
Securities claims — Stock and securities claims require additional research into corporate activity (mergers, splits, dividends) which can extend the timeline.
What affects processing time?
- Claim type — Simple cash claims resolve faster than securities or heir claims
- Documentation — Complete claim packages process faster. Missing documents cause delays.
- SCO volume — The State Controller's Office processes claims in the order received. High-volume periods may take longer.
- Filing method — Claims filed through investigators like myMoneyCA are typically filed correctly the first time, reducing back-and-forth.
How myMoneyCA keeps you informed
Your dashboard shows real-time claim status updates. We send email notifications at every stage: filing confirmation, SCO review, and approval. You can also ask myMoneyBot about your claim status anytime.
