What Happens If Property Taxes Go Unpaid During Probate?

Property taxes keep accruing after death. In California they are billed by the county and, if unpaid, they pile up penalties and become a lien against the home. Taxes that stay delinquent for years can eventually expose the property to a tax default sale by the county.

For an estate that will be sold, unpaid taxes are usually settled at closing out of the sale proceeds, so a short delay is rarely catastrophic. The bigger risk is a home that sits for a long time while nobody addresses the bills, letting penalties stack up and reducing what the heirs ultimately receive.

Practical steps

• Find the most recent San Diego County tax bill and note the amounts and due dates.
• If the estate has funds, keep taxes current to avoid penalties.
• If not, plan to clear the balance from sale proceeds at closing.

General information. Confirm specifics with the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector or your attorney.