Annual Property Tax Appeals in California

Annual appeals for real property are necessary when there is a decline in value below the value assigned by the assessor. Annual appeals for personal property (machinery, fixtures, and equipment) are a bit trickier. The assessor does not supply their valuation of personal property to taxpayers until the actual tax bill is sent. And then it is a figure that is a mystery. You must request the assessor’s calculations to get an understanding of just how the property you own is being taxed. You’ll want to do this before or during the appeal window, which is July 2 to either September 15 or November 30, depending on your county (see deadline tab). It is extremely important to request the calculations so you can determine if you’re being taxed fairly.