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California property tax appeals. Start here for free.

If your property's assessed value looks too high, start by checking it against market value. Our free county guides explain the Prop 8 review process and connect you with the local offices that handle property tax appeals.

Check my property for free →

Guides and eligibility checks are free. County filing fees and optional Vulorean services are separate. You can obtain the county application and prepare your own appeal without purchasing a report.

Find Your California County

Every California county has its own assessor's office and Clerk of the Board. Pick yours for local contact info, portal links, and filing notes.

58 counties

How to start a California property tax appeal

  1. Check your assessment. Find the assessed value, tax year and parcel number on your assessment notice or county record.
  2. Build your evidence. Compare similar properties near the relevant valuation date. For an annual decline-in-value review, that date is January 1.
  3. Contact the assessor. Ask about the county's informal Prop 8 review process, submission requirements and deadline.
  4. Protect your formal appeal deadline. If you still disagree, file the county's current application with the Clerk of the Board on time. An informal review does not extend that deadline.

What does free cover? You can read every county guide and run an eligibility check at no cost. You can represent yourself. Ask the county whether its formal application carries a fee and whether a fee waiver is available.

California property tax appeal FAQ

Can I appeal my California property tax for free?

The Vulorean guides and eligibility check are free. You can prepare your own evidence and represent yourself. Check with your county about informal review options and any formal appeal fee. Optional reports and representation have separate pricing.

Which county should I file with?

Use the county where the property is located. The assessor handles informal valuation reviews; the Clerk of the Board accepts formal assessment appeal applications. Select your county below for the local contacts.

When is the deadline?

Regular assessment appeals generally open July 2 and close September 15 or November 30, depending on the county. Confirm current-year dates and any weekend or holiday adjustment with the county. Informal reviews and supplemental assessments can have different deadlines.

Can an appeal increase my assessment?

Yes. The appeals board can lower, leave unchanged, or increase the assessed value based on the evidence. Continue paying your tax bills on time while the appeal is pending.

Does a Prop 8 reduction last forever?

No. A decline-in-value reduction is temporary and reviewed annually. As the market recovers, the value may increase by more than 2% a year, up to the applicable factored Prop 13 base year value.

Official California resources

Guide updated September 4, 2026. Vulorean is an independent service, not a government office. Confirm current forms, fees and dates with your county.