If you've tried to resolve an issue with your county and still need help, we're here for you. The Taxpayers' Rights Advocate Office helps make sure you are treated fairly and your rights are protected.

How We Can Help

We can help if:

• You have a problem you couldn't resolve with your County Assessor or Tax Collector.
• You're concerned with any of the programs administered by the State Board of Equalization.

We work with your county offices and our experts to:

• Review your situation.
• Improve communication.
• Help move your issue toward resolution.

Start Here First (Important)

Most property tax issues are handled at the county level. Contact the right office first:

• Assessor – property value, exemptions, assessments.
• Tax Collector – bills, payments, penalties, liens.
• Clerk of the Board – assessment appeals.
• Auditor-Controller – refunds and tax rates.

Find your county contacts at Listing of County Assessors, Auditors and Auditor-Controllers, Clerks of the Board, and Tax Collectors.

If you've already tried this and still need help, contact us.

Contact the Taxpayers' Rights Advocate Office

Online (fastest)

Submit a request online: Taxpayers' Rights Advocate Online Request Form

Phone

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific time), Monday through Friday, except on state holidays.
Call: 916-274-3400. Interpreter services are available free of charge.

Mail:

Taxpayers' Rights Advocate
State Board of Equalization
PO Box 942879
Sacramento, CA 94279-0120

For Sales and Use Tax issues, contact the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

What to Expect

When you contact us, we will:

• Listen to your concerns.
• Review your case.
• Provide you with helpful information on property tax laws.
• Explain your rights and options.
• Work with the appropriate office to help resolve the issue.

In some cases, the law may limit what changes can be made. When that happens, we will clearly explain why.

Learn more

Taxpayer Education

Explore Property Tax Savings programs to see whether you qualify for exemptions, exclusions, or other forms of property tax relief, including our Information Guide for Disaster Relief for Damaged or Destroyed Property (Publication 802).

Other Taxpayer Advocate Offices

You may also find help from:

• California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
• Employment Development Department
• Franchise Tax Board
• Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development
• Internal Revenue Service