Before you file: ask these questions
- Which current BOE-261-G form and supporting records should I use?
- What filing deadline and effective date apply to my purchase, occupancy date or VA award?
- Does my situation meet the basic or income-limited exemption requirements?
- Do I need to renew, file annually or report a change in eligibility?
- Could late filing, a retroactive rating or a supplemental assessment affect the claim?
- How will I know the exemption is approved and reflected in the tax record?
Prepare the records the county requests
The county may request the VA award or rating letter, qualifying service or discharge documentation, property and occupancy information, and income information for an income-limited claim. Surviving-spouse claims can require additional records. Follow the county’s instructions; do not send those records through this website.
Then review the mortgage payment
Share the assessor’s decision with your mortgage servicer if taxes are collected through an escrow account. Ask how and when an approved change affects the escrow payment. Do not reduce a scheduled mortgage payment on your own or assume approval before the assessor confirms it.