California tax collectors are expected to waive penalties against landlords and other property owners unable to pay their taxes by Friday’s deadline due to COVID-19 financial hardships.
That announcement came Sunday from the California State Association of Counties and the California Association of County Treasurers and Tax Collectors. In a statement, the groups said that counties will, on a case-by-case basis, cancel penalties and other charges for homeowners, small businesses, and other property owners that are unable to pay their property taxes due to circumstances caused by the pandemic.
The groups, however, urged property owners to pay on time and in full if they are able.
“Taking care of Californians is our top priority, and counties, cities, and schools are burning through local reserves to do so,” the associations said in a statement. “Any delay in payments beyond the April 10 property tax deadline, for individuals or businesses that can pay, will tip local governments into insolvency at a time when our residents need us the most.”
In many cases, counties are asking that property owners submit a form to request a waiver. It is best for property owners to visit their county tax collector’s website for more information on avoiding penalties.