Lower Your California Property Taxes

A property tax appeal challenges your property's assessed value if you believe it's too high. An exemption reduces your taxable value based on qualifying criteria like homestead, age, or veteran status.

September 15

A TRIM (Truth in Millage) notice is sent annually to property owners showing proposed property values and tax amounts. This triggers your appeal deadline window.

In California, property tax reductions are available to homeowners who can demonstrate their property is over-assessed, as well as those who qualify for exemptions such as homestead, senior, veteran, or disability exemptions. Even if you don't qualify for an exemption, you may still be able to reduce your taxes through an appeal.

Property tax appeals in California typically involve: 1) Reviewing your assessment notice when it arrives, 2) Gathering evidence such as comparable sales and property condition issues, 3) Filing a formal protest with your county before the deadline, 4) Presenting your case at an informal hearing or formal hearing, and 5) Receiving a decision. Abode Money handles this entire process for you.

Yes, protesting property taxes is often worth it. Many homeowners who protest receive a reduction, and even a small decrease in assessed value can result in hundreds of dollars in annual savings. With Abode Money, there's no upfront cost—you only pay if you save.

There are no penalties for not protesting, but you may miss out on significant savings. Property assessments can increase year over year, and without regular protests, you could end up overpaying compared to similar properties. Many California homeowners successfully reduce their taxes each year through appeals.