Updated on October 28, 2025

Owning a home in California means managing several responsibilities, including paying your property taxes when they become due.  These taxes are crucial for funding local services like Los Angeles County schools and public safety departments, but missing payments can lead to serious consequences, such as tax liens or even losing your home through a tax deed sale. Being informed about delinquent property taxes in California, deadlines, penalties and options available can help you avoid serious legal and financial trouble.

When Are Property Taxes Due in California — and What Happens If You’re Late?

In California, property taxes are split into two installments each fiscal year. Missing these deadlines can trigger significant financial consequences. Homeowners should be mindful of the following deadlines:

• First installment:

  • Due November 1st

  • Delinquent after close of business on December 10th.

  • Payments received after this date will trigger penalties. Most people use the December 10th deadline as the final deadline for paying their first installment.

• Second installment:

  • Due February 1st,

  • Delinquent after April 10th.

  • Missing this deadline adds further penalties and makes catching up more difficult.

• Why Deadlines Matter:

• • Missing either deadline results in immediate penalties—often 10% of the unpaid amount, plus additional costs and accumulating interest, which can make repayment increasingly challenging.

What Is a Property Tax Lien in California — and How Does It Affect Selling or Refinancing?

When property taxes remain unpaid, the county records a tax lien against the property, which generally takes priority over most other liens, including mortgages (deeds of trust) and other monetary liens.

Why Tax Liens Matter:

• This lien prevents the transfer of clear title to a buyer until all outstanding taxes are paid and the lien is released. Consequently, it can be very difficult to sell or refinance the property while a tax lien is in place.
• Paying off the tax obligation is the only way to clear the title and regain full control over the property.
• Typically, if someone is going to sell a property that has delinquent tax liens those liens will simply be paid out through the sale process with escrow withholding those funds from the seller’s final sale distribution – this would be shown on the seller’s final settlement statement.

Can the County Sell Your Home for Unpaid Property Taxes in California?

Yes — If taxes remain delinquent for an extended period—typically at least five years—the county tax collector has the authority to sell the property to recover the owed taxes (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 3691 (2024)).

What Is a Tax Deed Sale?

Unlike some states that sell tax liens to third parties, California is a “tax deed” state, meaning the county itself sells the property at a public auction known as a tax deed sale.  Theses sales do not come with any warranties like a normal sale so they often result in other problems that the unknowing or even knowing buyer has to deal with – like a lack of access.

How Long Do You Have to Stop a Tax Sale in California?

The redemption period is the time during which homeowners can pay overdue taxes to avoid the sale of their property. This redemption period ends at 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled tax sale.

Failure to pay by this deadline results in a public auction, after which regaining ownership becomes extremely difficult.

How Can You Avoid Falling Behind on Property Taxes in California?

Avoiding delinquent property taxes starts with proactive planning and understanding how California’s property tax system works. Even small oversights—like a missed notice or holiday-adjusted deadline—can lead to costly penalties or tax liens.

Practical Tips to Stay Current:

• Set calendar reminders for all installment due dates.

• Consider using a mortgage escrow account to handle property tax payments automatically.

• Double-check due dates annually, as they can shift with weekends or holidays.

• Ensure your mailing address is current with the county tax assessor and collector.

• Remember, not receiving a tax bill does not eliminate your obligation to pay.

How Do You Remove a Property Tax Lien?

If a tax lien has been placed on your property due to delinquent taxes, it can typically be removed after paying the full balance, including penalties and interest.

Start by contacting your county tax collector to confirm the total amount owed. Upon payment, the county will issue a tax lien release. It’s important to verify with the county recorder’s office that the release has been properly filed to ensure your title is clear.  You may even be able to negotiate a payoff assuming you cover the principal amount of the tax lien.

Need a Real Estate Attorney for Unpaid or Delinquent Property Taxes in California?

If you’re facing delinquent property taxes or the threat of a tax sale, the experienced attorneys at Schorr Law can assist. Our experienced team helps homeowners:

• Explore options to avoid foreclosure and tax sales

• Navigate redemption and payment plans

• Challenge improper tax notices or assessments

Our team understands the complexities of California property tax law and offers practical, strategic legal solutions to protect your rights and your real estate investments.

To schedule a consultation, call us at (310)954-1877, email info@schorr-law.com, or submit a request through our online contact form. We’re dedicated to helping California property owners protect their homes and understand their legal rights.

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FAQs on Past‑Due Property Taxes in California

Q1: Can I sell my property if it has a tax lien?

• A: No, a tax lien must be paid and released before you can sell or refinance.

Q2: Can I reclaim my property after it is sold at a tax deed sale?

• A: No, once property is sold at a tax deed sale, you permanently lose ownership.

Q3: Can I get legal help if my home is at risk due to delinquent taxes?

• A: Yes, an attorney can help you to stop or delay the sale, negotiate payment terms, or dispute the tax amount.

Q4: Can I set up a payment plan for delinquent property taxes?

• A: Some counties in California offer payment plans, but eligibility, down payment requirements and terms vary by location.

Q5: Can I stop a tax sale if I’m actively trying to pay the taxes?

• A: You must pay in full by the redemption deadline to stop the sale—intent to pay is not enough

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Resources

• 📄 California Revenue and Taxation Code § 3691

• 🏛 California State Board of Equalization – Property Taxes

• 🏠 Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector

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Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Property tax laws in California can vary by county and individual circumstance. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult with a qualified real estate attorney.

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