Finance & Jobs

California’s Property Tax Postponement Program for Seniors

In California, the Property Tax Postponement (PTP) Program allows eligible homeowners aged 62 or older to defer payment of property taxes on their primary residence. Here’s how to apply for the program:

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: You must be at least 62 years old, or blind, or disabled.
  • Ownership: You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence.
  • Equity: You must have at least 40% equity in the property.
  • Income: Your annual household income must not exceed $45,000.
  • Delinquency: Your property taxes cannot be delinquent.

Application Process

  1. Obtain the Application Form:
    • Download the application form from the California State Controller’s Office website, or
    • Request the form by calling the Property Tax Postponement Program at 1-800-952-5661.
  2. Complete the Application:
    • Provide personal information, including proof of age or disability.
    • Include information about your income and assets.
    • Submit documentation proving ownership and equity in the property.
    • Provide a copy of your current property tax bill.
  3. Submit the Application:
    • Mail the completed application and all required documents to:
      State Controller’s Office Property Tax Postponement Program
      PO Box 942850
      Sacramento, CA 94250-5880

4.  Await Decision:

    • The State Controller’s Office will review your application.
    • If approved, they will pay your property taxes directly to the county on your behalf.
    • The postponed taxes become a lien on the property and must be repaid when the property is sold, transferred, or upon your passing.

Important Notes

  • The application period usually begins in October and ends in February of the following year.
  • You must reapply each year to continue deferring your property taxes.
  • Interest accrues on the deferred taxes at a rate set by the State Controller’s Office.

For more information and to download the application form, you can visit the California State Controller’s Office Property Tax Postponement Program.

-Phan Trần Hương-