Press Releases

SACRAMENTO—State Controller Betty T. Yee today reminded California homeowners that the second installment of property taxes is due April 10 to treasurer-tax collectors in county governments.

As California’s chief fiscal officer, Controller Yee has received numerous inquiries about property tax payments in light of the COVID-19 public health emergency. 

“While the California Franchise Tax Board, which I chair, has the legal authority to extend filing and payment deadlines for income taxes, I do not have authority over county property tax collection,” explained Controller Yee. “However, each county treasurer tax-collector has the power to waive penalties and interest for late payments due to circumstances beyond the taxpayer’s control. It is my expectation that county leaders will consider exercising those powers.”

A homeowner should contact the treasurer-tax collector for the county in which their home is located if circumstances related to COVID-19 may result in late payment of property taxes. Some county treasurer-tax collectors have reduced staff capacity during the COVID-19 public health emergency, so responses might be delayed. 

All 58 California counties are able to accept electronic payments from people who are prepared to pay but are isolating at home. Some counties have issued statements about property tax payments due during the COVID-19 health crisis, and others are likely to follow suit. 

As the chief fiscal officer of California, Controller Yee is responsible for accountability and disbursement of the state’s financial resources. The Controller has independent auditing authority over government agencies that spend state funds. She is a member of numerous financing authorities, and fiscal and financial oversight entities including the Franchise Tax Board. She also serves on the boards for the nation’s two largest public pension funds. Elected in 2014 and reelected in 2018, Controller Yee is the tenth woman elected to a statewide office in California’s history. Follow the Controller on Twitter at @CAController and on Facebook at California State Controller’s Office.

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