The Gonsalves--Deukmejian--Petris Senior Citizens Property Tax Assistance Law provides direct cash assistance based on part of the property taxes paid on the homes of qualified individuals with limited household incomes who are either: (1) 62 or older, (2) blind, or (3) disabled; and a U.S. citizen or eligible alien. Claims for assistance are based on the 2008/2009 property taxes. The filing period runs from July 1, 2009 through October 15, 2009. Qualified individuals must file a claim form each year in order to receive assistance. Filing for property tax assistance will not reduce the amount of property taxes owed to the County Tax Collector.

Between July 1, 2008 and October 15, 2008, you can have a volunteer help fill out your claim for free. For information about this service, or to get claim forms or additional information regarding the Homeowner and Renter Assistance Program, please contact the California Franchise Tax Board at www.ftb.ca.gov or 800.868.4171