We have had a lot of requests about property tax payments. While the Government has given Tenants extensions and eviction protections, they are being very stingy and vague with property owners. If you cannot pay on time here is the process to request a waiver. There are no guarantees that your request will be granted.
STATEMENT FROM KEITH KNOX, TREASURER AND TAX COLLECTOR, REGARDING COVID-19 AND THE APRIL 10 PROPERTY TAX DEADLINE
I understand that this is a very stressful time, especially for those suffering direct effects from this public health crisis, and my office is committed to helping in any way we can. Los Angeles County property owners affected by the COVID-19 virus may have late penalties canceled if they are unable to pay their property taxes by the April 10 deadline.
We have no authority to extend the April 10 deadline, as outlined by State Law. However, beginning on April 11, the day after property taxes are due, people unable to pay on time for reasons related to COVID-19 may submit a request for penalty cancellation online. The department has set up a special team to process these requests for those who demonstrate they were affected by the outbreak.
How to request a Penalty Waiver for Late Payment of Property Tax
Here is the link to the Los Angeles Tax Collector website. https://ttc.lacounty.gov/
- When you open the site there is a pop-up box: close it on the top right
- Go to left column: Property taxes
- Go to Second Column: Secured Property Tax and scroll down to Penalty Cancelation Request. Close the white box
- Click the red button at the bottom: Proceed to Request
- Scroll to the bottom box and Click on section 4985.2
- You will now be at the form: fill in the requested Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN), And all other information.
You will need a valid reason as to why you cannot pay. They have not given any clear examples for the waiver. A general statement that the “Corona Virus affected me” may not be enough. If you have a direct illness in the family or if a majority of your tenants are not paying rent, you may have an acceptable reason. Retail property owners and Hotels have the greatest impact and could be entitled.
If you have a small percentage of your residential tenants not able to pay it may not qualify. Remember the Assessor can take these on a case by case basis and will request documentation so there is no guarantee of a waiver of the 10% late penalty being granted. You will be required to pay 100% of your property taxes at some point. Therefore, it is safer to pay now if you can. It will also really help the City to fund the fight against our common enemy.
Wishing that you and your family stay safe and healthy!
