How to Handle Property Taxes as an Executor During Probate in California
If you’re the executor of a probate estate in California, you are responsible for making sure the deceased’s property taxes are paid on time during the probate process. This ensures the estate stays in good standing and avoids penalties, liens, or tax sales especially in counties like Los Angeles where deadlines are strictly enforced.
Understanding the Executor’s Role with Property Taxes
As executor, your job includes managing all financial responsibilities of the estate including real estate taxes. This includes:
Reviewing property tax statements
Paying current or delinquent taxes from the estate account
Communicating with the county tax collector’s office
Keeping records for probate court reporting
If you’re unsure where to start, visit www.BorgesTeam.com/probate or contact us directly — we can walk you through your next steps as a probate executor in Los Angeles.
When Are Property Taxes Due in California?
Installment Covers Period Due Date Delinquent After
1st July 1 – Dec 31 Nov 1 Dec 10
2nd Jan 1 – June 30 Feb 1 April 10
Missing these deadlines can trigger costly penalties so even if probate is ongoing, taxes still need to be paid on time.
Do You Have to Pay Property Taxes If the Home Isn’t Sold Yet?
Yes. Regardless of sale status, taxes continue accruing. The county does not pause or delay taxes just because the property is in probate.
Need help confirming what’s owed? Our team can connect you with trusted title reps and county contacts. Schedule a quick probate call here.
Can You Use Personal Funds?
Preferably not. Instead:
Open an estate checking account
Use funds from the estate to pay the tax bills
Maintain documentation for court approval
If you’re unsure how to set this up, our probate specialists can assist. Visit www.BorgesTeam.com/probate or send us a message.
What If There Are Back Taxes or Penalties?
You’ll need to:
Request a payoff demand from the County Tax Collector
Settle the outstanding balance using estate assets
Disclose these amounts if the home is being sold
For LA County properties, use this direct resource:
L.A. County Tax Portal → https://ttc.lacounty.gov
Still have questions? Our team can help you determine the cleanest way to resolve tax issues. Reach out here.
Selling a Probate Property? Here’s What to Know
If you plan to list:
Make sure taxes are current
Work with escrow to prorate payments properly
Disclose any liens or delinquencies in the sale
Our probate sales team specializes in Los Angeles and Pasadena. Whether the home needs to be cleared, staged, or sold “as-is,” we’ll make sure you don’t get stuck during escrow.
Book a free probate consultation:
www.BorgesTeam.com/schedule
Important for Heirs: Homeowner’s Exemptions & Prop 19
The death of the homeowner often ends their exemption benefits. Inherited properties may face:
Full tax reassessment (especially if the heir does not move in)
Loss of the prior tax base under Prop 13
Possible Prop 19 eligibility if it was the family home
We can refer you to the right tax attorney or planning advisor. Just mention "Prop 19 help" when you contact us.
Get Help Managing Property Taxes as an Executor
Handling property taxes during probate can feel overwhelming, especially if you're grieving or out-of-state. The Borges Real Estate Team has guided dozens of executors through this process from Pasadena to Palos Verdes and we’re here to help.
Website: www.BorgesTeam.com
Probate Page: www.BorgesTeam.com/probate
Schedule a Call: www.BorgesTeam.com/schedule
Send a Message: www.BorgesTeam.com/contact
We’re probate real estate specialists—this is what we do.
