Orange County residents can claim over $700 million in unclaimed property through new mapping tool

Orange County auditor-controller Andrew Hamilton announced Wednesday, October 29, the launch of a new, easy-to-use website that helps residents find and claim their portion of over $700 million in unclaimed property waiting to be returned by the state.

The new mapping tool was unveiled during a press conference at the historic Old Orange County Courthouse, where Hamilton and other local leaders emphasized the importance of returning unclaimed funds to their owners and families.

“Our goal is to ensure every Orange County resident has easy access to money that is rightfully theirs,” said Hamilton. “This new website streamlines the search process so people can quickly find unclaimed funds that may help with household expenses, education or savings. I’m proud our office is delivering this important service to the community.” 

Unclaimed property refers to money or other financial assets that have been held by businesses or government agencies and have gone dormant or unclaimed by their rightful owners for a specified period of time.

 This can include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance payouts or utility deposits. By law, these assets are turned over to the State until the owners or their heirs come forward to claim them. Since its launch, the new tool has already helped residents in 12 Orange County cities reclaim a total of $159,000 in unclaimed property.

“These funds can now be reinvested into our local communities, supporting city programs and services that make a difference for residents every day. This initiative is a great example of the government working efficiently to ensure resources find their way back to the people they belong to, and I applaud everyone involved for making this possible,” said Supervisor Don Wagner.

The auditor-controller’s office encourages all Orange County residents to visit ocunclaimed.gov and use the mapping tool as it is free and simple. If the claim is $1,000 or more, notarization is required. The auditor-controller’s office offers free notary services for unclaimed property claims only.