California Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption

California Board of Equalization / Santa Clara County Assessor

Available Home Repair

About This Program

California Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption is available to homeowners in San Jose, CA.

Any California homeowner who occupies their property as their principal residence on January 1 can claim a $7,000 assessed value reduction, saving approximately $70-$80 per year in property taxes. This is a baseline exemption that applies to virtually all owner-occupied homes and is filed once with the county assessor.

Annual tax savings at typical Santa Clara County effective rate

Official program page checked live on 2026-06-22.

Data last verified 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.

In San Jose, CA, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • $7,000 assessed value reduction for all owner-occupants
  • Annual savings of approximately $70-$80
  • No income requirement, available to all homeowners
  • File BOE 266 with Santa Clara County Assessor
  • One-time filing; renewal not required in most cases

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

408-299-6460

A grant-savvy contractor in San Jose, CA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in San Jose early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Your federal tax return for the year of the work (this benefit is claimed on your taxes, not through a separate application).
  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: File by February 15 for full exemption; one-time filing usually sufficient

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

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Frequently asked questions

How much can California Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption provide in San Jose, CA?

$7,000 assessed value reduction (~$70-$80 annual tax savings).

Who qualifies for California Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption in San Jose?

California Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption is open to homeowners in San Jose, CA. It has no income limit.

How do I apply for California Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption in San Jose, CA?

Apply directly with California Board of Equalization / Santa Clara County Assessor using the official program link on this page or call 408-299-6460. There is no middleman and no fee. Deadline: File by February 15 for full exemption; one-time filing usually sufficient.

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Find More Programs in San Jose, CA

This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.

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