San Bernardino County, California Property Taxes

In San Bernardino County, homeowners who believe their property tax assessments are inaccurate have the option to appeal. The process begins with filing an appeal with the county's Assessment Appeals Board, the body responsible for reviewing and deciding on disputes. Homeowners must submit their appeal within the specified timeframe after receiving their assessment notice. The appeal process typically involves providing evidence that supports a lower valuation, such as recent sales data of comparable properties, an independent appraisal, or evidence of property damage that affects value.

Once the appeal is filed, the Assessment Appeals Board will review the submitted evidence and may schedule a hearing. During the hearing, homeowners can present their case, and the board will evaluate the evidence provided. The potential outcomes of an appeal can vary. If the board finds the evidence compelling, it may decide to lower the assessed value of the property, resulting in reduced property taxes. Conversely, if the evidence is deemed insufficient, the original assessment may be upheld.

Ownwell can assist homeowners throughout this process by providing expert guidance and support. With a deep understanding of local property tax laws and extensive experience in handling appeals, Ownwell can help gather relevant evidence, prepare necessary documentation, and represent homeowners during the hearing. By partnering with Ownwell, homeowners can increase their chances of a successful appeal, potentially leading to significant savings on their property tax bills. The expertise and personalized service offered by Ownwell ensure that homeowners are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the property tax protest process in San Bernardino County.

San Bernardino County offers several property tax exemption programs designed to provide financial relief to eligible homeowners. One of the most significant is the Homeowners' Exemption, which is specifically for primary residences. To qualify, the property must be the owner's principal place of residence as of January 1st of the tax year. This exemption reduces the assessed value of the home, thereby lowering the property tax bill.

Another valuable program is the Disabled Veterans' Exemption, available to veterans with a service-connected disability rating. This exemption significantly decreases the assessed value of the veteran's home, offering substantial savings on property taxes. Additionally, the Senior Citizens' Property Tax Postponement Program allows eligible seniors to defer payment of their property taxes, easing the financial burden for those living on a fixed income.

Homeowners can apply for these exemptions by submitting the appropriate forms to the San Bernardino County Assessor's Office. It's crucial to meet application deadlines and provide any necessary documentation to qualify.

Ownwell assists homeowners in navigating these exemption programs, ensuring they understand the eligibility criteria and application process. By leveraging Ownwell's expertise, homeowners can maximize their potential savings and ensure they are not overpaying on their property taxes. This guidance is particularly beneficial for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of property tax laws and exemptions.