Property taxes: we all have to pay them, but that doesn’t mean we should overpay. Every year, Riverside County reassesses homes to calculate property taxes, and sometimes those numbers don’t quite add up. The good news? Homeowners have the right to appeal if they think their property has been over-assessed.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lower your tax bill (legally!), here’s a step-by-step guide made just for Riverside County homeowners.

Why Would You Appeal?

Your property tax bill is based on your home’s assessed value, not necessarily what you could sell it for today. That assessed value can be wrong for a few reasons:

• The county has incorrect information (extra bedroom? non-existent pool?).

• The market has shifted, but your assessment hasn’t.

• Your home’s condition or location factors don’t match the value given.

Even a small over-assessment can mean hundreds (or thousands) of extra dollars in taxes every year.

Step 1: Watch for Your Notice

Every July, Riverside County mails out an Annual Notice of Value. This little piece of mail tells you what the county thinks your home is worth for tax purposes. If you think the number looks too high, don’t just sigh and toss it in the drawer—you might have options.

Step 2: Know the Deadlines

For Riverside County, the appeal period typically runs from July 2 to November 30. That’s your window to act. Once the deadline passes, you’ll need to wait until next year.

Step 3: Gather Your Evidence

This is where the homework comes in. You’ll need to show proof that your home’s market value on January 1 was less than what the county assessed. A few ways to do that:

• Comparable sales (comps): Recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood.

• A Realtor’s CMA: (This is where I can be of help)

• Appraisal reports: Independent appraisals carry a lot of weight.

• Photos and documents: Think condition issues, outdated features, or anything else that impacts value.

Step 4: File Your Appeal

Here’s the important part—actually filing the paperwork. You’ve got two options in Riverside County:

✅ File online through the Assessment Appeals Online Portal → Start here

✅ Download and mail in the BOE-305-AH form (Application for Changed Assessment) → Get the form here

(Pro tip: Filing online is usually faster and easier.)

Step 5: The Hearing (Maybe)

In many cases, the paperwork is enough. But sometimes you’ll be scheduled for a quick hearing in front of the Assessment Appeals Board. Don’t panic—this isn’t like court. It’s a simple meeting where you share your evidence, and they decide if your assessment should be lowered.

Step 6: The Outcome

If you win, congrats! Your tax bill will be reduced, and if you’ve already overpaid, you might even get a refund. If not, at least you know you gave it a shot, and you can always try again next year if the numbers still don’t make sense.

My Advice as a Local Realtor

Here’s where I can help:

• I can pull comps for your home as of January 1.

• I’ll help you understand if an appeal is actually worth it.

• I’ll remind you when appeal season rolls around so you don’t miss the deadline.

Appealing your property taxes isn’t always necessary, but when it is, it’s nice to know you’ve got options (and someone in your corner).

👉 Thinking your home might be over-assessed? Shoot me a message, and I’ll be happy to pull comps for you so you can make an informed decision.