SENIOR CITIZEN ASSISTANCE

PROPERTY TAX ASSISTANCE FOR SENIOR CITIZENS AND BLIND / DISABLED PERSONS:

The state budget deleted funding for the Howneowner and Renter Assistance program for 2008 claims. Tax assistance law provided direct cash reimbursement by the state for part of the property taxes on the homes of qualified person with limited total household incomes who are either: (1) 62 or older; (2) blind; or (3) disabled.

Filing for property tax assistance prior claims will not reduce the amount of property taxes owed to the county tax collector nor will it result in a lien being placed on the property.

FORMS AND INFORMATION:

Claim forms or information regarding the property tax assistance program may be obtained by telephoning the franchise tax board toll free at 1-800-868-4171 For Claimant assistance you can locate the nearest VITA site at www.ftb.ca.gov/index.html.

PROPERTY TAX POSTPONEMENT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS:

The senior citizens property tax postponement law gives qualified persons who are (1) 62 or older; (2) blind; or (3) disabled; with an income of approximately $31,500 or less the option of having the state pay all or part of the taxes on their homes (the property occupied as principal place of residence). The amount of taxes postponed must be repaid to the State of California. The postponed amount becomes due and payable when the individual moves, sells the property or becomes deceased.

A new law prohibits the Controller from accepting claims filed on or after February 20, 2009, however, "Certificates of Eligibility" will be processed for the remainder of the 2008 fiscal year only. For more information visit www.sco.ca.gov or call (916) 324-4011.