Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Sacramento County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

How Property Tax Works in Sacramento County

In Sacramento County, property taxes are administered by the County Assessor’s Office and collected by the Revenue Department. Each year, the Assessor conducts a market-value appraisal of every parcel, which is the basis for calculating the tax liability. California’s Proposition 13 limits the annual increase in assessed value to 2% or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower, unless the property changes ownership. After the assessment, the county applies the effective millage rate— the amount of tax per dollar of assessed value— which is set by the county, school districts, and other local entities. The combined rate typically ranges around 0.8% to 2.1% of the market value, depending on the services the property’s jurisdiction receives.

To find your exact tax amount, multiply the assessed value by the effective millage rate. The Assessor’s Office provides a property tax statement at the end of each tax year, and the online “Tax Calculator” tool can give a quick estimate once you enter your parcel number or address.

Available Exemptions

California offers several property‑tax exemptions that can reduce your taxable value. Sacramento County residents may qualify for the following:

• Homestead Exemption – A basic exemption of $7,000 for any primary residence protected by Proposition 58.
• Senior Citizen Exemption – Eligible homeowners age 55 or older can receive an additional $10,000 exemption if they meet income limits.
• Disability Exemption – Individuals with a 100% disability under the VA or a qualifying impairment may receive a $2,500 exemption.
• Veterans' Exemption – Veterans who served at least one year in the active armed forces, or their surviving spouses, can claim a $50,000 exemption on the first registered vehicle-related property, such as a manufactured home.
• Serviceman and Survivors' Exemption – Certain families of fallen servicemen and women may receive a highest lifetime exemption of $100,000.

These exemptions must be filed with the County Assessor before the tax year begins. Further details and application forms are available on the Sacramento County Assessor’s website.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Sacramento County are usually due in two installments: the first between April 1 and May 1, and the second between October 1 and November 30. Paying the full amount by the due dates avoids late fees and additional interest.

• First Installment: 50% of the total tax bill is due by May 1.
• Second Installment: Remaining 50% is due by November 30.
• Late payments after the deadline incur a penalty of 2% per month or a minimum of $40, whichever is greater.
• Payment options: In‑person at the County Courthouse, online through the Student and Tax Office portal, or by mail. Installment payment plans are available for low‑income residents or those experiencing financial hardship.
• Refunds of overpayment can be requested at any time; otherwise, the amount will be credited to the next tax year’s bill.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is too high, you can file an appeal with the Sacramento County Assessor’s Office within 60 days of receiving your assessment notice.

• File a written petition that includes a clear statement of the correct market value, supporting documentation such as recent sales comps or a professional appraisal, and the parcel information.
• Submit the petition through the online portal or in person. The Assessor will review the evidence and inform you of a hearing date.
• Hearing before the Assessor’s Hearing Officer allows you to present oral arguments and additional evidence. The decision is binding, but you may appeal to the California Tax Appeals Board if dissatisfied.
• Timeliness is critical; missing the 60‑day window forfeits your right to an appellate review.

By understanding the assessment process, exemption options, payment deadlines, and appeals procedure, Sacramento County residents can confidently manage their property‑tax responsibilities and ensure they pay only what is fair and lawful.