California state tax liens are recorded at the request of various governmental agencies. For questions about a state tax lien, contact the appropriate agency directly: Board of Equalization (916) 445-1122
When a notice of state tax lien is timely filed or recorded, the state tax lien continues in effect for a period of ten years from the date of filing or recording. The notice of levy provisions in RTC section 6703 contain no time limitation for the exercise of this collection remedy by the Board.
A payoff request allows a third party to receive the current balance due to release a lien or facilitate a business transfer (bulk sale transfer or liquor license). To release a lien or facilitate a bulk sale transfer, businesses must be in good standing to receive a payoff request.
The first place to search for a tax lien in California is the clerk-recorder's office in the county where a taxpayer resides or where a property is physically located.
To get a payoff letter, ask your lender for an official payoff statement. Call or write to customer service or make the request online. While logged into your account, look for options to request or calculate a payoff amount, and provide details such as your desired payoff date.