Forgotten Security Deposits: A Commonly Overlooked Asset You Can Recover
In California, hundreds of thousands of dollars in unclaimed security deposits go unnoticed and unrecovered every year. Many tenants simply move out of a rental property without realizing they are still entitled to money — often because they forgot, lost documentation, or didn’t receive proper notice from their former landlords. If you’ve ever rented a property in California, there’s a chance the state may be holding your money — and recovering it could be easier than you think.
At Claim My CA Property, we specialize in helping people track down these forgotten funds and get them back where they belong. In this guide, we’ll break down how security deposits go unclaimed, who qualifies to recover them, and how the California State Controller’s Office plays a role in this process.
What Is a Security Deposit?
A security deposit is a sum of money paid by a tenant to a landlord before moving into a rental property. This money acts as a safeguard against potential damages or unpaid rent. In California, landlords are required to return this deposit (minus deductions for legitimate expenses) within 21 days of the tenant moving out.
But what happens if the landlord fails to return it, or the tenant forgets about it?
Why Do Security Deposits Go Unclaimed?
Many tenants move from one place to another, and in the chaos of relocation, they may forget to follow up on a refund. Here are the most common reasons security deposits become unclaimed property:
1. Changed Address Without Forwarding Information
If a tenant fails to leave a forwarding address or update their contact details, the landlord may not know where to send the refund. The check then goes undelivered and can be returned to sender.
2. No Response From the Landlord
Some landlords, either through neglect or intent, may fail to return the deposit. Over time, if the funds are not claimed, they are turned over to the state.
3. Abandonment of Claims
Many renters assume the landlord used up the entire deposit and simply move on without questioning it. They might not know they’re still entitled to receive part — or all — of the money.
4. Bank Errors and Check Expiration
Security deposit refunds are often issued via paper checks. If the check is never cashed, gets lost, or expires, the funds may revert to the landlord’s account — and eventually to the state as unclaimed property.
How California Handles Unclaimed Security Deposits
California has strict laws in place regarding unclaimed property. If a business, such as a landlord or property management company, cannot return money to its rightful owner within three years, that money must be reported and sent to the California State Controller’s Office (SCO) under the Unclaimed Property Law.
Once the funds are with the state, the rightful owner can file a claim to retrieve them — but only if they know the money exists in the first place.
Real-Life Example: Maria’s $1,500 Surprise
Maria rented an apartment in Long Beach from 2016 to 2018. She left the unit in good condition and expected her $1,500 security deposit to be returned. The landlord said they mailed the check, but Maria had already moved to a new state and never received it. Two years later, while helping her friend search for unclaimed tax refunds, she looked up her own name on the California Unclaimed Property Search and found her deposit sitting with the state.
She filed a claim, submitted a copy of her old lease agreement and photo ID, and received the full $1,500 check in 6 weeks — no legal action necessary.
How to Search for and Recover Your Forgotten Deposit
Step 1: Use the State Controller’s Website
Visit the California State Controller’s Office Unclaimed Property Search Tool:
https://ucpi.sco.ca.gov/UCP/
Search using your name and any previous addresses where you may have rented a property.
Step 2: Identify Matching Properties
Look for listings that show your name and a business like a property management company, apartment complex, or landlord.
Step 3: File a Claim
If you find a match, click “File a Claim” and follow the steps to upload:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of address (lease agreement, utility bill, etc.)
- Any other documents requested by the SCO
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing times vary, but you’ll typically receive a confirmation within 30 days and a refund within 60–90 days.
How Claim My CA Property Can Help
If you’re overwhelmed by the process or unsure whether you’re eligible, our team at Claim My CA Property can assist with:
- Research: We’ll dig deep to find deposits you may not know about.
- Paperwork: We help complete all claim forms and upload necessary documentation.
- Follow-Up: We’ll track the claim’s progress and ensure it’s handled efficiently.
Our expertise in navigating California’s unclaimed property laws makes it faster and easier to recover what’s rightfully yours.
Security Deposits from Deceased Relatives
Unclaimed property is also common among estates of deceased individuals. If a loved one passed away and rented a property in California, their security deposit may still be recoverable by their next of kin or executor.
To claim this, you will need:
- A certified copy of the death certificate
- Probate documents or a small estate affidavit
- Proof of your relationship to the deceased
- A copy of the lease or any documentation showing the security deposit
Claim My CA Property regularly assists heirs and beneficiaries with securing these forgotten assets.
Tips to Avoid Losing Your Deposit in the Future
While it’s great that California helps return lost property, it’s better to avoid losing track of money altogether. Here’s how:
- Always leave a forwarding address with your landlord
- Take photos and video of the unit when you move out
- Request a move-out inspection
- Keep a copy of the lease agreement
- Follow up within 21 days if you haven’t received your refund
- Cash or deposit refund checks promptly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a landlord keep my security deposit?
Only if they provide an itemized list of deductions for damages or unpaid rent. Otherwise, they must return the remainder within 21 days.
What if I don’t have my old lease?
You can still file a claim using other forms of proof, such as utility bills, old bank statements, or government documents showing your address during the rental period.
Is there a deadline to claim my unreturned deposit?
No. California does not place a time limit on when you can claim property turned over to the state.
Can I claim a security deposit from another state?
Each state has its own unclaimed property office. If you rented in another state, you should check their Unclaimed Property Division as well.
Final Thoughts: Your Money May Be Waiting
Security deposits are one of the most frequently forgotten assets when it comes to unclaimed property. If you’ve ever rented in California, even many years ago, it’s worth checking the state database.
You might be just a few clicks away from recovering hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars.
If you’re unsure where to begin, contact us at Claim My CA Property. We specialize in tracing, claiming, and recovering these funds for Californians — with no upfront fees.
25 Useful Backlinks
California State Controller’s Office Unclaimed Property Search Tool
California Civil Code §1950.5 – Security Deposits
California Tenants’ Rights Guide – Security Deposits
California Courts – Small Claims for Security Deposits
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles – Security Deposit FAQs
California Apartment Association – Security Deposit Law Overview
Nolo – How Tenants Can Get Their Security Deposits Back
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Managing Moving Expenses
Better Business Bureau – Rental Disputes
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Tenants’ Rights
State Bar of California – Landlord-Tenant Rights
CalMatters – Renters and Security Deposits
Tenants Together – California Renter Advocacy
California Department of Consumer Affairs
California Legislative Information
Free Legal Answers California
California Franchise Tax Board – Unclaimed Property
USAGov – Claim Missing Money
National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators
Los Angeles County – Unclaimed Monies
City of San Diego – Tenant Resources
Orange County – Housing Authority Resources
Santa Clara County – Tenant Support
California Department of Real Estate
Claim My CA Property – Start a Claim