Behind on Property Taxes in California?
California Can Sell Your Home for Unpaid Taxes
Even if your mortgage is paid off or you own your home outright, delinquent property taxes can lead to losing your property. But you have 5 years and multiple options before that happens.
If you've fallen behind on property taxes, you're probably receiving alarming letters from the county. It's scary - but here's what you need to know: California cannot sell your home until taxes have been delinquent for 5 years. You have time, but you need to act.
How Property Tax Delinquency Works in California
The 5-Year Timeline
10% penalty added after December 10 (1st installment) or April 10 (2nd installment). Property becomes "tax defaulted" after June 30.
1.5% per month (18% annually) added to your balance. County sends annual notices. You can still pay at any time.
County gains authority to sell your property. You'll receive a Notice of Power to Sell at least 45 days before any sale.
Your home is sold. No right of redemption after sale in California. New owner receives deed.
The Good News
You can stop this process at ANY point before the sale by paying your delinquent taxes, penalties, and costs. The county WANTS you to pay - they'd rather collect taxes than go through the sale process.
Your Options for Delinquent Property Taxes
5-Year Installment Plan
Pay 20% down + $75 fee, then monthly payments over 5 years. Must have been defaulted at least 1 year. Contact your County Tax Collector to apply.
Property Tax Postponement (Seniors)
If you're 62+ with household income under $49,017, California will pay your property taxes as a lien against your home, due when you sell or pass away.
California Mortgage Relief Program
Can cover delinquent property taxes up to $80,000 for qualifying homeowners. Apply at camortgagerelief.org. FREE money, not a loan.
Disabled Veteran Exemption
Qualifying disabled veterans can receive property tax exemptions that significantly reduce or eliminate their tax burden going forward.
What to Do Right Now
Contact your County Tax Collector or check online. Get the total including all penalties and interest.
When did taxes first become delinquent? How many years? Has the county gained power to sell yet?
California Mortgage Relief Program can cover delinquent taxes. Seniors can apply for postponement.
If you can make payments, apply for the 5-year installment plan at your County Tax Collector.
If you can't afford the taxes and payments, selling preserves your equity. Better than losing the home at tax sale.
What If I Have Both Mortgage AND Tax Problems?
Many homeowners facing tax delinquency are also behind on their mortgage. This complicates things:
- Mortgage escrow: If your mortgage includes tax escrow, your lender may pay delinquent taxes and add it to your loan balance
- Double jeopardy: You could face both mortgage foreclosure AND tax sale
- Priority matters: Property tax liens are superior to mortgage liens - taxes get paid first in any sale
Important Warning
If you're behind on both mortgage AND property taxes, you may need to prioritize. A foreclosure attorney or HUD counselor can help you understand your best strategy. Don't ignore either problem.
County Tax Collector Contact Information
Each county handles its own property taxes. Here are major California counties:
- Los Angeles County: (213) 974-2111 | ttc.lacounty.gov
- San Diego County: (877) 829-4732 | sdttc.com
- Orange County: (714) 834-3411 | ttc.ocgov.com
- Riverside County: (951) 955-3900 | countytreasurer.org
- San Bernardino County: (909) 387-8308 | sbcounty.gov/atc
- Sacramento County: (916) 874-6622 | finance.saccounty.gov
Beware of "Tax Lien" Scams
Scam Alert
Scammers target people with delinquent taxes. Watch out for: unsolicited offers to "save your home," demands for upfront fees, pressure to sign over your deed, offers that seem too good to be true. Only deal with official county offices or verified, licensed professionals.
Need Help Figuring Out Your Options?
Whether you want to keep your home, need to sell, or just want to understand your situation better - we can help you sort through it.
Call (949) 565-5285Free, confidential consultation
The Bottom Line
Delinquent property taxes are serious, but you have time and options. California gives you 5 years before the county can sell your home, and there are payment plans and assistance programs available.
The worst thing you can do is ignore it. Every year you wait, more penalties and interest accumulate. But with the right plan, many homeowners resolve their tax delinquency and keep their homes.
Start today: Find out exactly what you owe, check your eligibility for assistance programs, and make a plan. You've got this.