CALIFORNIA - Living in California is expensive—from gas prices to rent, every dollar matters. But while you are paying bills, the state government might be holding onto a check with your name on it. As of 2026, the California State Controller’s Office is safeguarding a staggering $11.6 billion in unclaimed property. This isn't just tax refunds; it’s forgotten apartment security deposits, uncashed payroll checks, insurance payouts, and dormant savings accounts.
But "lost" money isn't the only way to get cash back this year. Between the "Climate Credit" hitting your utility bill and a specific grant that pays you to retire your old car, there are thousands of dollars on the table for savvy residents.
Here is your guide to finding the money that belongs to you in the Golden State.
1. The $11 Billion "Lost" Pot
California has the largest unclaimed property database in the nation. Under state law, if a business (like a bank or landlord) loses contact with you for three years, they must turn your assets over to the Controller’s Office.
What is new: California recently updated its laws to include digital financial assets (like cryptocurrency accounts) in the unclaimed property pool. If you had a crypto wallet you haven't accessed in years, it might now be in the state's custody.
How to Check:
- Go to the Official Site: Visit claimit.ca.gov.
- Search: Enter your name. (Common names should add a city to narrow it down).
- The "Heir" Search: Because California property values are high, estate funds are common. Search for deceased parents or grandparents; you may be the eligible heir to a forgotten safe deposit box or insurance policy.
2. The California Climate Credit (Check Your Bill)
You might have received money this month without realizing it. The California Climate Credit is a state program that requires power plants and industries to pay for carbon pollution. That money is then returned to households on their utility bills.
- When it arrives: Typically in April and October.
- The Amount: It varies by utility provider (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E), but can range from $30 to $170+ per year.
- Action: Check your latest electricity bill. If you didn't see a credit line item, ensure your utility company has you classified correctly as a residential customer.
3. "Clean Cars 4 All" (Up to $12,000)
Most people know about standard EV rebates, but they miss the much larger "Clean Cars 4 All" grant because they think it's too good to be true.
If you live in a qualifying zip code (usually lower-income or high-pollution areas in the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Sacramento, or San Diego) and have an older car (typically 2005 or older), the state will pay you to scrap it.
- The Payout: You can get up to $9,500 to $12,000 toward a new or used cleaner car (hybrid, plug-in, or electric).
- Alternatively: If you don't want a car, they may give you up to $7,500 in transit cards or e-bike vouchers.
- Where to look: Google "Clean Cars 4 All [Your County]" to find your local air district’s application page.
4. The Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC)
If you have a child under age 6, you might be missing out on $1,117+. Unlike some federal credits that require high income, California’s Young Child Tax Credit is designed for working families.
- The Update: Recent changes mean you might qualify even if you had $0 in income, provided you meet other eligibility rules.
- The "Double Dip": You can claim this in addition to the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), which can be worth up to $3,529.
Action Plan: 3 Steps to Take Today
- Search the Controller's Site: Go to claimit.ca.gov and type in your name. It is the only way to know if you are part of the $11 billion statistic.
- Verify Your "Clean Cars" Zone: If you are driving a "beater" car from the early 2000s, check if your zip code qualifies for the $12,000 scrappage grant. It is one of the highest-value grants in the US.
- Check Your Utility Bill: Look for the "California Climate Credit" line item. It’s free money you are already getting—make sure you aren't throwing the bill away without noticing the savings.
