Q: When are property taxes due in Calaveras County for fiscal year 2024-2025?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: first installment due November 1, 2024 (delinquent December 10, 2024), and second installment due April 1, 2025 (delinquent April 10, 2025).
Q: What property tax credits are available and do they require applications?
A: The primary credit is the Homeowners' Exemption, which reduces assessed value by $7,000 (saving $70-84 annually). This requires filing form BOE-266 with the Assessor's Office by February 15th. Additional credits may include Veterans' Exemption and Disabled Veterans' Exemption, all requiring separate applications.
Q: How does the Homestead exemption work in California?
A: California doesn't have a traditional "homestead exemption." The Homeowners' Exemption reduces your home's assessed value by $7,000. More importantly, Proposition 13 caps annual assessment increases at 2% for all properties, providing ongoing tax protection that requires no application.
Q: When does the county reassess my property?
A: Properties are reassessed to current market value upon change of ownership or completion of new construction. Otherwise, assessed values can only increase by a maximum of 2% annually under Proposition 13, regardless of market value changes.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: File an Application for Changed Assessment (BOE-305-AH) with the Calaveras County Assessment Appeals Board between July 2nd and November 30th. Contact the Clerk of the Board at (209) 754-6370 for forms and procedures.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: A 10% penalty is added to delinquent first installments after December 10th. Second installments become delinquent April 10th with 10% penalty plus 1.5% monthly interest. Properties with delinquent taxes for 5 years may be sold at tax auction.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, online payments are accepted through the Calaveras County Treasurer-Tax Collector website at www.co.calaveras.ca.us. Payments can be made by electronic check or credit card (convenience fees apply for credit cards).
Q: What are Mello-Roos taxes and Community Facilities District (CFD) fees?
A: These are special assessments in newer developments to pay for infrastructure like roads, schools, and utilities. CFD rates vary by development and appear as separate line items on your tax bill. Contact the county for specific CFD information for your property.
Q: Why did I receive a supplemental tax bill?
A: Supplemental bills are issued when property changes ownership or new construction is completed, covering the tax difference for the remaining months of the current fiscal year. These are separate from your regular annual tax bill and have different due dates.
Q: How can I get a copy of my current tax bill?
A: Current and prior year tax bills are available online through the Calaveras County Treasurer-Tax Collector website using your Assessor's Parcel Number (APN), or by calling (209) 754-6375.
