Chula Vista, California — The City of Chula Vista is urging residents, businesses, and heirs to check if they have unclaimed funds waiting to be collected. These funds, which can come from uncashed checks issued for vendor payments, reimbursements, or other city-related transactions, are listed in the City’s official Unclaimed Monies list, available online.
Under California Government Code Sections 50050 et seq., unclaimed funds of $15 or more that remain unclaimed for three or more years become property of the City if not claimed within 45 days of their first publication in a local newspaper. Funds under $15 are retained by the City after one year from the original payment date, without requiring public notice.
To determine if they are eligible, individuals are encouraged to review the monthly-updated list at: www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/finance/unclaimed-monies
If a name appears on the list, the claimant must submit a completed Unclaimed Monies Form along with proof of identity or ownership. Required documents may include a government-issued ID for individuals, a W-9 form and authorization letter for businesses, or a death certificate and trust documentation for heirs.
For claims under $1,000, the form does not require notarization and may be submitted online.
Claims of $1,000 or more must be notarized and submitted via email, postal mail, or in person at the Finance Department located at 276 Fourth Avenue, Building A, Chula Vista, CA 91910.
Once the claim and required documents are received, the City will review the request and may ask for additional documentation if needed. If approved, the City will cancel the original check and issue a new one. Claimants will be notified of the approval or denial by email. The processing period takes approximately 3 to 4 weeks after approval.
For questions about eligibility or the claims process, the City of Chula Vista encourages residents to email unclaimedmonies@chulavistaca.gov or call (619) 691-5250, option 0.