How to apply for California Property Tax Postponement (PTP)

Who it's for

Property Tax Postponement (PTP) lets qualifying senior, blind, or disabled homeowners defer their property taxes — the state pays the county on the homeowner's behalf, and the deferred amount becomes a lien on the property repaid when the home is sold, transferred, refinanced, or the owner moves out. It's one of California's most under-claimed senior benefits despite deferring thousands of dollars in property taxes each year. Applications for the 2025-26 fiscal year are accepted October 1, 2025 through February 10, 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.

What you'll need

• Proof of age (driver's license or birth certificate) — or proof of blindness/disability if applying under those pathways
• Proof of identity
• Most recent property tax bill
• Documentation of all household income (Social Security award letter, pension statements, tax returns)
• Documentation of home equity (recent mortgage statement showing balance vs. home value)
• Confirmation that no reverse mortgage exists on the property

Where to apply

Renewals

annual (re-apply each year between October 1 and February 10)