SAN DIEGO, CA, August 8, 2022 – San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector Dan McAllister announced that starting today his office will begin mailing defaulted tax bills to property owners who have prior year unpaid property taxes. 

“We’re sending about 700 fewer defaulted bills than we sent last year,” said McAllister. “We appreciate San Diegans for paying what they owe; these taxes fund our public schools, first responders, and other essential services.” 

The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office (TTC) sent reminder notices to late taxpayers in June, warning them that they will have to pay more if their taxes go into default. Those parcels that remained unpaid will receive their defaulted bill in the coming week.  

“We work hard to inform homeowners of the late fees that incur as a result of nonpayment, warning them along the way that additional penalties are coming,” said McAllister. “The results of this effort are underscored by our 99.1% collection rate this fiscal year – one of the highest in the state – which shows that the majority of San Diegans take the responsibility to pay on time seriously.”  

The defaulted bills total over $139 million. The deadline to pay the 2021-2022 annual tax bill was June 30.  Per California Revenue and Taxation Code, beginning July 1, each late bill will incur a 1.5% penalty each month (18% per annum) that it remains unpaid. That is on top of the 10% penalty added for each late installment.  

Threat of increased penalties is not the only incentive for people to pay their taxes. Under California State law, the Tax Collector may sell any or all portions of properties that have been in default for five or more years. McAllister encouraged taxpayers to make future payments via the free e-check payment system at www.sdttc.com.  Reasons to pay property taxes online:  

• sdttc.com website is secure. 
• Paying online is better for the environment. 
• The payment system is fast and easy to use. 
• Customers with tax collection questions can call: 1-877-829-4732.