When exactly are my property taxes due and what happens if I'm late?
The first installment is due November 1 and becomes delinquent after December 10. The second installment is due February 1 and becomes delinquent after April 10. If December 10 or April 10 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline extends to the next business day. Late payments incur a 10% penalty plus a $23 collection fee.
How do I qualify for the Homeowner's Exemption and how much will I save?
You must own and occupy the property as your principal residence on January 1 (lien date). The exemption reduces your assessed value by $7,000, saving approximately $70-80 annually depending on your tax rate. New homeowners typically receive the application automatically, but you can request one by calling (714) 834-3821.
How is my property's assessed value determined?
For recently purchased properties, the assessed value equals your purchase price. For properties owned longer, the assessed value is based on the previous year's value plus an annual increase up to 2% (the actual increase is tied to the Consumer Price Index). Proposition 13 protects long-term owners from dramatic assessment increases based on market appreciation.
How do I appeal my property assessment if I think it's too high?
You can file an Assessment Appeal Application with the Orange County Clerk of the Board between July 2 and December 1 each year. The filing fee ranges from $65 to several hundred dollars depending on your property's assessed value. Appeals are heard by the Assessment Appeals Board, and you'll need evidence that your property's market value is lower than its assessed value.
What payment options are available for my property taxes?
You can pay online at TaxBill.octreasurer.gov using eCheck (no fee) or credit/debit card (service fee applies), by phone at (714) 834-3411, by mail with check or money order, or in person at the Treasurer-Tax Collector's office. Online and phone payments are credited immediately and provide instant receipts.
What other exemptions might I qualify for besides the Homeowner's Exemption?
Veterans may qualify for a $4,000 exemption (though the Homeowner's Exemption is usually better), disabled veterans may qualify for $100,000-$150,000 exemptions, and seniors with limited income may qualify for property tax postponement programs. Contact the Orange County Assessor at (714) 834-2727 for specific eligibility requirements.
What is a supplemental tax bill and when will I receive one?
When you buy property, you'll receive a supplemental tax bill covering the period from your purchase date through June 30. This bill reflects the difference between the previous owner's assessed value and your purchase price. The bill typically arrives 2-9 months after purchase and has different due dates than regular property taxes.
How can I verify that my mortgage company is paying my property taxes correctly?
Check your annual escrow analysis statement and verify payments online at TaxBill.octreasurer.gov using your Assessor's Parcel Number (APN). You can also sign up for email or text notifications when payments are received. If you discover your lender hasn't paid by the delinquent dates, contact them immediately and consider making the payment yourself to avoid penalties.
