Understanding Property Taxes in Los Angeles County

What is Property Tax?

Property tax, also known as real estate tax, is a type of ad valorem tax imposed by local governments on the value of real property. In California, property taxes are administered at the county level, and Los Angeles County is no exception. As a homeowner or business owner in LA County, it's essential to understand how property taxes work and what your obligations are.

Property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of the property, which is typically determined by the county assessor's office. The tax rate is then applied to this value to determine the amount of tax owed. For example, if a property has an assessed value of $500,000 and the tax rate is 0.8%, the total tax liability would be $4,000 (0.8% x $500,000).

How Property Taxes are Used in Los Angeles County

The revenue generated from property taxes is used to fund various public services and infrastructure projects within LA County. This includes, but is not limited to, law enforcement, fire protection, education, healthcare, and transportation. The county also uses a portion of the funds to support local government operations and debt repayment.

It's important to note that property tax revenue is not used for personal gain or to benefit individual taxpayers. Instead, it's used to improve the overall quality of life in LA County by providing essential services and infrastructure

What You Need to Know About Property Tax Exemptions and Discounts

As a property owner in LA County, it's crucial to understand the various exemptions and discounts available to reduce your tax liability. These may include, but are not limited to, veteran's exemptions, senior citizen's exemptions, and charitable organization exemptions.

It's essential to review the eligibility criteria for these exemptions and discounts with a qualified tax professional or the LA County Assessor's office to ensure you're taking advantage of all available options