HOMEOWNER’S PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION

A homeowner’s exemption is a free service that homeowners can apply for themselves through
the Assessor’s Office.

Homeowner's Exemption Brochure

Q: What is the Homeowner’s Property Tax Exemption?

A: The Homeowner’s Exemption provides for a reduction of $7,000 off the assessed value of your residence. This results in an annual property tax savings of approximately $70.

Q: Who qualifies for this program?

A: Property owners who occupy their homes as their principal place of residence on January 1, and each year thereafter, are eligible for the exemption.

Q: How do I obtain a Homeowner’s Exemption application?

A: Whenever there is a purchase or transfer of residential property, the Assessor’s Office automatically mails a Homeowner’s Exemption claim form. You may also download the application from our web site at www.sdarcc.com/arcc/docs/hoxemp.pdf, or request that one be mailed to you by calling our office at (619) 531-5772.

Q: Is there a fee for filing a Homeowner’s Exemption application with the Assessor’s Office?

A: No. This is a free service provided by the Assessor’s Office.

Q: How can I determine if I am already receiving the Homeowner’s Exemption?

A: To verify that you are receiving your Homeowner’s Exemption, review your latest property tax bill. The exemption is shown in the red-shaded area in the lower left corner of your bill.

Q: When is the filing deadline for the Homeowner’s Exemption?

A: The regular filing deadline is February 15 to receive the full exemption of $70. Late filing is from February 16 to December 10 to receive 80% of the exemption ($56). Late-filed exemptions will receive the full $70 exemption after the first year.

Q: If I miss the Homeowner’s Exemption deadline, is there any provision for granting the exemption for prior years?

A: No. According to California State law, Homeowner’s Exemptions cannot be granted for prior years.

Q: Do I need to file each year for the Homeowner’s Exemption program?

A: No. Once you have filed and been granted the Homeowner’s Exemption and you continue to own and occupy the same residence, you will automatically receive the exemption in future years.

Q: If I own a mobilehome, do I qualify for a Homeowner’s Exemption?

A: If you pay property taxes on your mobilehome and it does not have State license tags, you may be eligible for the Homeowner’s Exemption. For more information, please call the Assessor’s Office at (619) 531-5772.

Q: If I receive a Disabled Veteran’s Exemption, may I also apply for a Homeowner’s Exemption?

A: No. The Disabled Veteran’s Exemption results in a substantially higher savings than a Homeowner’s Exemption.

Q: If I own more than one residence, may I receive a Homeowner’s Exemption for each property?

A: No. California State law permits only one Homeowner’s Exemption per resident.

Q: Why must I submit my Social Security number when applying for the Homeowner’s Exemption?

A: State law requires Social Security numbers in order to ensure that homeowners receive only one exemption.

Property Tax Assistance

If you are blind, disabled, or 62 years of age or older and on limited income, you may be eligible for one of the following programs:

(1) Property Tax Postponement
If you have a limited annual income, you may be eligible to defer the property taxes on your house, condo, or mobilehome. This deferred payment is a lien on the property and generally becomes due upon sale, change of residence, or death. The filing period is from May 15 through December 10. For more information and the necessary application, call the State Controller’s Office at (800) 952-5661 or visit them on the web at www.sco.ca.gov.

(2) Homeowner’s Assistance
If you have a limited annual income, the State may provide for partial reimbursement on the property taxes on your home. Filing for this program will not result in a lien being placed on your property. The filing period is from July 1 through June 30. For more information and the necessary application, call the State Franchise Tax Board (toll free) at (800) 338-0505 or visit them on the web at www.ftb.ca.gov.