Filing a homestead declaration is a wise and proactive measure for homeowners in California. It provides a legal shield against creditors, preserves your home equity, and offers peace of mind in an unpredictable world.
Obtain the claim form from the County Assessor's office where the property is located. Submit the completed form to the same office. Once the exemption has been granted, it remains effective until a change in eligibility occurs, such as selling or moving out of the home. Annual filing is not required.
The protected amount is called the “homestead exemption.” All homeowners automatically have a homeowner's exemption, which protects part of their equity from involuntary sales (foreclosures). Recording a declaration of ownership extends this protection to voluntary sales.
The home must have been the principal place of residence of the owner on the lien date, January 1st. To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located.
Lower My Property Taxes Decline In Value / Prop 8. Calamity / Property Destroyed. Disabled Veterans' Exemption. Homeowners' Exemption. Nonprofit Exemptions. Transfers Between Family Members. Transfer of Base Year Value to Replacement Dwelling. Assessment Appeal.
The protected amount is called the “homestead exemption.” All homeowners automatically have a homeowner's exemption, which protects part of their equity from involuntary sales (foreclosures). Recording a declaration of ownership extends this protection to voluntary sales.
California offers an automatic homestead exemption to every homeowner who occupies their home, whether it is a single-family dwelling, mobile home, or even a boat.
Declared Homestead. Currently, the California homestead exemption is automatic, meaning that a homestead declaration does not need to be filed with the county clerk. Under the new 2021 law, $300,000–$600,000 of a home's equity cannot be touched by judgment creditors.
At its core, homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of a homeowner's primary residence, meaning a portion of the home value will not be taxed. This reduction results in lower property tax bills.