Cal. Rev. & Tax. Code § 9014

If upon any sale the moneys received exceed the amount due to the state from the user, the board shall return the excess to the user and obtain his or her receipt. If any person having an interest in or lien upon the property files with the board prior to the sale notice of his or her interest or lien, the board shall withhold payment of any excess pending a determination of the rights of the respective parties thereto by a court of competent jurisdiction. If for any reason the receipt of the user is not available, the board shall deposit the excess moneys with the Controller, as trustee for the user, subject to the order of the user, his or her heirs, successors, or assigns.