Various private companies are again sending mailings to property owners offering their services to pursue a reduction in their property taxes. These companies may charge hundreds of dollars to file for a reduction in value on behalf of the property owner. Some companies are even imposing late fees if the application is received after an arbitrary deadline. Be aware that solicitations from private companies offering to pursue a reduction in property taxes must clearly indicate that they are NOT a government agency and that their services are NOT approved or endorsed by any government agency. Failure to provide such notice is a violation of California law. If you or someone you know receives an illegal solicitation, please contact the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Affairs by phone at (800) 973-3370 or visit their website.

There is no reason to pay for a review that has been done for free.

Property owners should be aware that their property may have been included in a review the Assessor’s Office did for 2009. The review included single-family homes and condominiums purchased between July 1, 2003 and June 30, 2008. In some particularly hard hit areas of the county, the review included properties purchased as far back as 2000. 473,000 properties were reviewed, resulting in lower assessments on 333,000 homes and condos. Please click here to see if your property has been reviewed for a decline-in-value.

All 473,000 owners whose property was included in the proactive review were notified of the results in writing in June. Owners who disagree with the results of the review or were not included in the review, may file an application through December 31. The Decline-In-Value form is simple to complete and readily available online or at one of the Assessor's District Offices. We will review the application and if a reduction is warranted, the taxable value will be reduced. Please note that there is no charge for a review.

Click here to see Public Service Announcement with Assessor Auerbach and County Supervisor Gloria Molina.

Click here to see public service video, "Don’t Get Ripped Off."

See related news stories on KNBC Channel 4, KABC Channel 7, KCAL Channel 9 and Fox Channel 11.

Click here to read Assessor's Op-Ed article in the Daily News.

Click here to see if your property has been reviewed for a decline-in-value.

Please click here to read the Press Release.