Q: My girlfriend died how long does the family has to claim the money from the state
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- California
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A:
I'm very sorry for your loss. When it comes to unclaimed property in California, including money and assets from deceased individuals, the state holds these funds until they are properly claimed.
In California, there is no strict time limit for family members to claim money from a deceased person's estate through the state's unclaimed property program. However, it's best to start the process as soon as possible by visiting the California State Controller's Office website and searching for unclaimed property under your girlfriend's name. You'll need to provide documentation proving your relationship to the deceased and your right to claim the property.
The process of claiming these funds typically involves submitting several documents, including a death certificate, proof of your identity, and possibly probate court documents depending on the amount and type of property. Keep in mind that if there's a will or if your girlfriend had living parents, siblings, or children, they may have priority in claiming any assets. Working with a probate attorney might help navigate this process more smoothly, especially if the amount is substantial or if there are multiple potential claimants.
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