Sonoma County Homeowners: Tax Relief Grant Up To $80,000 Available

Sonoma County homeowners who fell behind on their property taxes because of the COVID-19 pandemic now have access to significantly larger grants through the California Mortgage Relief Program. County officials announced that the program has raised its cap on property tax assistance from $20,000 to as much as $80,000 per household, offering a critical lifeline just as the April 10 secured property tax deadline passed.

The assistance is distributed as a grant, not a loan, meaning qualifying homeowners do not have to pay the money back. Funds are sent directly to the county tax collector on behalf of the homeowner, clearing delinquent tax balances and preventing the accumulation of additional penalties and interest.

Who Qualifies For The Grant

To be eligible, homeowners must have experienced a qualifying pandemic-related financial hardship and meet household income limits set at 150% of their county's Area Median Income, based on federal guidelines. The program is designed for owner-occupied primary residences with no more than four units, and applicants must have missed at least one property tax payment before March 1, 2023.

Homeowners who previously received a smaller grant under the original $20,000 cap may be eligible to reapply for additional funds up to the new $80,000 ceiling, provided they continue to meet all program requirements.

Why The Expanded Cap Matters In Sonoma County

Sonoma County Treasurer-Tax Collector Erick Roeser emphasized the importance of the expansion as homeowners navigate the post-pandemic economy. "By increasing the cap on property tax assistance, the program is continuing to act as a safety net for homeowners," Roeser said.

The timing is significant: secured property tax second installments became delinquent after April 10, 2023, and late payments now carry a 10% penalty. For households already struggling, that penalty can compound a difficult situation and push them closer to a tax-default sale. The expanded grant can wipe out both the delinquent balance and prevent future penalty accrual.

How To Apply

There is no strict application deadline, but county officials are urging eligible homeowners to apply promptly because funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications can be submitted online at CaMortgageRelief.org. Homeowners who prefer to speak with a representative can call 1-888-840-2594, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additional help, including one-on-one counseling in multiple languages, is available at CaMortgageRelief.org/help.

For Sonoma County-specific questions, homeowners can contact the county's public affairs office at publicaffairs@sonomacounty.gov or (707) 565-3040.