Information only. Homestead Exemption Finder is not a government agency or tax adviser. Exemptions are granted by your county or local assessor, so confirm the rules and deadline with them.
California Homestead Exemption & Property Tax Relief
The main statewide homestead exemption or property tax relief program for California homeowners, summarized from the official state source with the date we last checked it.
Homeowners' Exemption
California State Board of Equalization
Most homeowners
What it does
Reduces the taxable value of an owner-occupied home by $7,000.
Who qualifies
Owners whose home is their principal residence on January 1.
How to apply
File form BOE-266 once with your county assessor, no later than February 15 for the full exemption.
Confirm the home is your primary residence and that you owned and lived in it by the qualifying date your county uses.
Find your local office. File form BOE-266 once with your county assessor, no later than February 15 for the full exemption.
Gather proof: usually a deed or closing statement, a driver's license or state ID at the property address, and (for senior, disability or veteran relief) proof of age, disability rating or income.
File by February 15 and keep a copy. Filing is free.
Check your next tax bill or assessment notice to confirm the exemption appears.