Example of Santa Barbara County Property Tax Calculation
In Santa Barbara County, the property tax rate is determined by the assessed value of the property. For example, if a property is assessed at $500,000, the tax rate would be 1% of that value, which equals $5,000 per year.
To calculate the property tax for a homeowner in Santa Barbara County, take the assessed value of the property and multiply it by the current tax rate. The current tax rate in the county is 1%, meaning if a property is assessed at $500,000, the annual property tax would be $5,000.
It is important to note that there may be additional taxes and assessments added to the property tax bill, such as special districts or bond measures. Homeowners should review their property tax bill thoroughly to understand all charges and fees included.
If you want appeal your property tax assessment - contact your local tax assessor.
Santa Barbara County Property Tax Rates
Here is a table of Santa Barbara County Property Tax rates per $100 of assessed value:
| Tax | Rate per $100 of Assessed Value |
|---|---|
| County General Tax | $1.10 |
| County Roads Tax | $0.55 |
| County Library Tax | $0.08 |
| Fire District Tax | Varies by district |
| School District Tax | Varies by district |
| City Tax (if applicable) | Varies by city |
Please note that the Fire District Tax and School District Tax rates vary depending on the specific district in Santa Barbara County. It is recommended to contact the appropriate district for exact rates. Additionally, if the property is located within a city, a city tax may also apply, with rates varying by city.
Who sets property tax rates in Santa Barbara County ?
Property tax rates in Santa Barbara County are set by two main entities - the County Board of Supervisors and various school districts, depending on the location of the property.
Here's a breakdown of each entity and their role in setting property tax rates:
| Entity | Role |
|---|---|
| County Board of Supervisors | Sets the general property tax rate for the County, which applies to all properties within the County. This rate is typically set in August each year. |
| School Districts | Set their own property tax rates, which apply to all properties within the district. These rates are typically set in June each year. |
It's important to note that property tax rates can vary widely depending on the location of the property and any special assessments or bonds that have been approved by voters. Property owners can check their property tax bill or contact the County Assessor's office for more information on their specific tax rates.
Homestead exemptions in Santa Barbara County ?
In Santa Barbara County, California, there are several homestead exemptions and deductions available for eligible property owners. The following table lists these exemptions and deductions along with their eligibility criteria, amount, and any additional notes.
| Exemption/Deduction | Eligibility | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Exemption | All homeowners | $7,000 | Applies to all real property |
| Homeowner's Exemption | Owner-occupied homes | $7,000 | Must be the primary residence |
| Disabled Veteran's Exemption | Veterans with service-related disabilities | Up to $197,612 | Exemption amount varies based on disability rating |
| Parent/Child Transfer | Parents and children | Exempt from property tax reassessment | Property must be transferred to child or parent |
| Senior/Disabled Citizen's Replacement Dwelling Exclusion | Senior citizens or disabled persons | Exemption from reassessment | Applies to replacement dwellings worth equal or less than the original property |
| Prop 60/90 | Homeowners over 55 | Exemption from reassessment | Allows eligible homeowners to transfer their assessed value to another property within the same county or to another county (Prop 90 only) |
It's important to note that these exemptions and deductions may have additional requirements and limitations, such as income limits, residency requirements, and application deadlines. Property owners should consult with the Santa Barbara County Assessor's Office for more information on how to apply for these exemptions and deductions.
When is Santa Barbara County Property Tax due ?
Santa Barbara County Property Tax is typically due on December 10th every year. However, if December 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date is extended to the next business day.
Individuals who own property in Santa Barbara County can make their property tax payments through a variety of methods. These methods include:
- Online: Property owners can pay their taxes online using a credit card or electronic check through the county's website.
- Mail: Property owners can mail in their payment using a check or money order. The payment must be postmarked by the due date to avoid penalties.
- In-person: Property owners can make their payment in person at the County Tax Collector's office. Payments can be made using cash, check, or credit card.
It is important for property owners to pay their taxes on time to avoid penalties and interest charges. If a property owner is unable to pay their taxes in full by the due date, they can make partial payments to avoid additional fees.
If you have more questions - contact your local tax collector.
How is Santa Barbara County Property Tax penalty calculated ?
Santa Barbara County calculates property tax penalties based on a formula that takes into account the amount of tax owed and the length of time it remains unpaid. The penalty is calculated as follows:
- 1.5% of the unpaid tax amount for the first month
- An additional 1.5% for each additional month the tax remains unpaid, up to a total of 18%
For example, if a property owner owes $10,000 in property taxes and fails to pay for five months, the penalty would be:
- 1.5% of $10,000 = $150 for the first month
- 1.5% of $10,000 + $150 = $300 for the second month
- 1.5% of $10,000 + $300 = $450 for the third month
- 1.5% of $10,000 + $450 = $600 for the fourth month
- 1.5% of $10,000 + $600 = $750 for the fifth month
In this example, the total penalty would be $2,250 (1.5% x 5 months x $10,000), in addition to the original $10,000 owed in property taxes.
It is important for property owners to pay their taxes on time to avoid penalties and interest charges. If a property owner is unable to pay their taxes in full, they may be eligible for a payment plan or other options to help them avoid penalties and interest.
We recommend contacting the Santa Barbara County Tax Office or a local tax professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.