When exactly are property taxes due in Riverside County?
Property taxes are due November 1st (first installment) and February 1st (second installment). However, payments are not considered delinquent until after December 10th for the first installment and after April 10th for the second installment. Late payments incur a 10% penalty plus administrative costs.
How do I qualify for the Homeowner's Exemption?
You must occupy the property as your principal residence as of January 1st and file an application with the Riverside County Assessor's office. The exemption provides a $7,000 reduction in assessed value (saving approximately $70-80 annually), and once approved, it automatically renews each year as long as you continue to occupy the home as your primary residence.
How is my property assessed in Riverside County?
The County Assessor determines your property's assessed value based on its purchase price (for recently sold properties) or its factored base year value plus allowable annual increases under Proposition 13 (maximum 2% per year). New construction and improvements are assessed separately at current market value.
How do I appeal my property assessment?
You must file an assessment appeal application with the Riverside County Clerk of the Board within specific deadlines - typically between July 2nd and September 15th for regular appeals, or within 60 days of receiving a notice of supplemental assessment. The appeals board will schedule a hearing to review evidence from both you and the assessor.
What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A 10% penalty plus administrative costs are added to delinquent payments. First installment becomes delinquent after December 10th, and second installment becomes delinquent after April 10th. If taxes remain unpaid for five years, the property may be sold at a tax sale.
How do I pay my property taxes online?
Visit www.countytreasurer.org and use your Assessor's Parcel Number (APN) found on your tax bill. You can pay by bank transfer (no fees), credit card, or electronic check. You can also call 951-955-3900 to pay by phone or visit any Treasurer-Tax Collector office location.
What other property tax exemptions are available?
Disabled veterans may qualify for exemptions up to $134,706 (basic exemption amount, adjusted annually for inflation) or up to $268,000 for severely disabled veterans. Senior citizens and disabled persons may qualify for property tax postponement programs. Contact the Riverside County Assessor's office for specific eligibility requirements.
How does supplemental tax work when I buy a home?
When you purchase property, a supplemental tax bill covers the difference between the previous owner's assessed value and your purchase price, prorated for the remaining months in the tax year (July-June). This is separate from your regular annual tax bill and typically arrives 4-8 weeks after closing. Your new assessment then becomes the base for future annual bills.
