Business claim checklist: the documents you need

Updated November 8, 2026

Most delays come from a missing document. Gather these before filing and the claim can move as soon as it arrives.

1. Signer's photo ID. A current government-issued photo ID for the person who will sign the claim form.
2. Proof of authority. A document showing the signer can act for the business: for example a corporate resolution, an LLC consent, or a letter on company letterhead signed by an officer.
3. Proof of the FEIN. An IRS document showing the business's federal employer identification number.
4. Proof of the reported address. Something showing the business at the address on the record: invoice, lease, utility bill, bank statement, tax filing or Secretary of State filing from that period.
5. Name-change or merger papers. If the name on the record is not today's name: amendments, merger or acquisition documents, or a fictitious business name filing.
6. Dissolution papers. If the company was dissolved: dissolution records and proof of who is entitled to its remaining assets.
7. Property-specific proof. Where helpful: statements for an account, invoices to the customer who issued a refund, or brokerage records for securities.

Then the claim form

The signer signs the Controller's claim form in wet ink, in front of a notary when the cash total is $1,000 or more or any securities are included. The package goes by mail, courier or in person.

Tips

• Match every document to the exact name and address on the record.
• For old addresses, any dated business document from that time can help.
• Keep copies of everything you send.

If you work with us, we send a checklist built for your records and pre-fill the authority letter.