O.C. Property Tax postponement program for low income seniors and the disabled application period ends on February 10

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Orange County Treasurer Shari Freidenrich reminds taxpayers that the application period for the California Property Tax Postponement Program (PTP) that allows low income seniors and disabled property owners to defer their fiscal year 2021-22 secured property taxes on their principal residence if they meet established criteria.

The program does not allow for delinquent property taxes from prior years. Information is available by either emailing postponement@sco.ca.gov, at the California State Controller’s Office website or by calling 800-952-5661. Applications can be downloaded online and must be submitted by February 10. The program is on a first come, first served basis.

“Low income seniors and people with disabilities have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 and this program may be able to help them this year,” said Orange County Treasurer Shari L. Freidenrich. “Those who are eligible including those living in mobile homes should consider applying.”

Interested applicants will need to submit a copy of their current year property tax bill along with other required documents. An online copy of your property tax bill is acceptable and can be found at octreasurer.com/octaxbill or by scanning the QR code below and then entering your APN or property address.

To qualify, a homeowner much meet all of the following criteria (contact the State as criteria may change):

• Own or occupy the real estate as a principal place of residence
• Have a household income of $45,000 or less
• Have at least 40 percent equity in the property
• Not have a reverse mortgage on the property
• Be at least 62 years of age, or blind or disabled
• Can have delinquent prior year taxes (except for mobile homes)

A seven percent interest rate per year will be charged for taxes postponed under the PTP. Applications will be accepted through February 10, 2022, and depending on the number of applicants, the program deadline may be extended. Property taxes must be paid on time through the application process and if approved, homeowners will receive a refund minus the amount due under the program.