Q: When are property taxes due in Amador County for FY 2024-2025?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: November 1, 2024 (becomes delinquent December 10, 2024) and February 1, 2025 (becomes delinquent April 10, 2025).
Q: What is the Homeowners' Exemption and how do I apply?
A: The Homeowners' Exemption reduces your assessed value by $7,000, saving approximately $70 annually. You must file form BOE-266 with the Amador County Assessor's office. This is NOT automatic and requires a one-time application when you first occupy the property as your primary residence.
Q: Are there other property tax credits available in Amador County?
A: Yes, including the Disabled Veterans' Exemption and Senior Citizens' Property Tax Postponement program. All require separate applications with specific deadlines and eligibility requirements. Contact the Assessor's office for current programs and application deadlines.
Q: How does California's Homestead protection work?
A: California's Homestead laws protect equity in your primary residence from creditors but do not reduce property taxes. The homestead declaration limits forced sale proceeds available to creditors, not your tax assessment.
Q: When can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed between July 2nd and either September 16th or December 2nd, depending on when the County Assessor mails assessment notices. Contact the Clerk of the Assessment Appeals Board for exact deadlines for your property.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: A 10% penalty is added to the first installment if not paid by December 10th, and to the second installment if not paid by April 10th. Additional penalties and costs may accrue for extended delinquencies.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online in Amador County?
A: Yes, Amador County typically offers online payment options through their official website. Contact the Tax Collector's office for current online payment methods, accepted payment types, and any associated convenience fees.
Q: Why did my property taxes increase when I didn't make improvements?
A: Under Proposition 13, assessments can increase up to 2% annually even without improvements. Additionally, voter-approved bonds, new special assessments, or changes in special district boundaries can affect your tax rate.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax bill?
A: Supplemental taxes are issued when property changes ownership or when new construction is completed. The bill covers the difference between old and new assessed values for the remaining portion of the fiscal year.
Q: How do special taxing districts affect my tax rate in Amador County?
A: Your location determines which special districts apply to your property, such as school districts, fire districts, or community facilities districts. These can add significantly to your base tax rate and vary widely across different areas of the county.
