What is a Homeowners' Exemption?

California property tax law provides for an exemption of up to $7,000 of the assessed value of a dwelling that is used as a principal place of residence on January 1 of each year. This is a property tax savings of approximately $70 per year. In order to qualify for the exemption you must either:

  • Own and occupy the dwelling as your principal residence as of January 1, each year
  • Intend to occupy, as your principal residence, a recently purchased or constructed dwelling within 90 days after the purchase or completion of construction

If you qualify for this exemption under option number 2, the first year of the exemption will only apply to a Supplemental Assessment (if any).

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1. Is there a fee to apply for the Homeowners' Exemption?
2. I received a notice indicating there was a fee to apply for the Homeowners' Exemption. What should I do?
3. What is a Homeowners' Exemption?
4. How do I get a Homeowners' Exemption?
5. What is the filing period for the Homeowners' Exemption?
6. Do I need to reapply for this exemption every year?
7. How can I verify that I am receiving a Homeowners' Exemption?
8. If I move out and rent my house to someone else, am I eligible for the exemption?
9. May I claim the exemption on two properties, as live I in both?
10. My wife & I live in separate residences. May we claim the exemption on both residences?
11. I have two residences on my property. May I claim the exemption on both residences?
12. I am living in a motor home on the property. May I claim the exemption?
13. I have the Disabled Veterans' Exemption. May I claim the Homeowners' Exemption also?
14. My title is in the name of my trust. May I claim the exemption?
15. I did not know about the exemption. May I file for back years?
16. I don't want to disclose my Social Security Number. May I claim the exemption without it?
17. I don't have a Social Security Number. May I claim the exemption without it?
18. Is the Homeowners' Exemption form considered public information?
19. Is my Social Security Number used to track anything other than the Homeowners' Exemption?
20. Does the exemption apply to servicemen who are not legal residents of California?
21. Need Additional Information on Homeowners' Exemption?