If you're a property owner in San Diego County behind on your taxes, now's the time to get up to speed, as the Treasurer-Tax Collector's office has started circulating notices for delinquent tax payments. According to a recent announcement, Dan McAllister says that additional penalties await those who delay.
Last week, a whopping 27,295 bills went out to mailboxes across the county, indicating the considerable sum of $189,584,845.88 in unpaid property taxes, a staggering figure by any measure, McAllister's office had already issued a heads-up back in May about what it means going into default. Yet, these parcels stay unpaid, and now their owners face steep costs. "The deadline to pay was June 30," McAllister told the office's new arrivals, and any payments made after July 1 are subject to a monthly penalty of 1.5%, which escalates to 18% over a year on top of the already added 10% for each late installment in addition to a $33 redemption fee.
Despite the looming penalties, McAllister noted the high rate at which San Diegans generally settle their dues, with the office boasting an average collection rate of 99%. However, for those still in arrears, he suggested the benefits of paying online at sdttc.com—no additional fees for the convenience, security, speed, and a simpler process that's kinder to the environment—measures aimed at facilitating taxpayers' compliance sans hit to their pockets or the planet.
In the fiscal landscape that we navigate, the specter of tax liens and property sales are real possibilities for those who remain in default for five or more years, as McAllister encouraged taxpayers not just to clear their outstanding balances but also to consider appointing future payments through the online system which stands an accessible avenue for all. For queries or guidance through the payment process, taxpayers can contact customer support at 1-877-829-4732.
