Most homeowners in California are unaware they have two options to file for a reduction in property taxes, the informal review and the formal appeal. As clearly outlined in the table below, the informal review process is the easier and faster of the two options.

Informal Review

Formal Appeal

You can call or write to the assessor to request an informal review of your property To file a review by mail all that's necessary is a completed one page form provided by the county and two to four comparables depending on your county It's not necessary to appear at a hearing Comparables must fall within the 90 day window Providing evidence is key You will be notified of your results most likely when your tax bill arrives in early July If you don't like the outcome you still have the opportunity to file a formal appeal in July

Must accurately complete a detailed application form (any error in completing this form may result in a rejection of your appeal) Must adhere to the county's specific requirements during the appeal In most cases you must present findings of fact in person to a hearing officer or an appeals board Providing evidence is key Comparables must fall within the 90 day window You may have to wait up to 2 years before a hearing is scheduled Must bring copies of your evidence for each member to review

Probably the most important advantage to requesting an informal review first as opposed to waiting to file the formal route is:

If you don't receive the outcome you were looking for during the informal review, you still have the ability to formally appeal. Savvy homeowners who go this route take advantage of two distinct opportunities to have their property taxes reduced.

To determine your county's specific filing dates for the informal review or formal appeal process please click on the deadline tab above.