Bakersfield Property Tax Records

Bakersfield property tax records are maintained by Kern County offices, not the city government. The County Assessor-Recorder evaluates all properties and sets assessed values. The County Treasurer-Tax Collector handles all billing and payment collection. This structure follows California's Proposition 13 requirements that apply statewide. Bakersfield residents can search property records online, pay bills through county portals, and file exemptions with county staff. Some neighborhoods have special assessments for lighting districts, landscaping, or infrastructure improvements. These charges appear on property tax bills as separate line items. Business owners may also pay city business taxes through separate city systems, but property taxes on real estate always go through Kern County offices.

Kern County Handles Bakersfield Property Taxes

Bakersfield is in Kern County. All property tax work for the city goes through county offices. The Assessor-Recorder evaluates properties based on purchase price and improvements. The Treasurer-Tax Collector sends bills and processes payments. This applies across California under state law.

Search Bakersfield property records using Kern County online portals. The county provides free access to assessment data, tax bills, and payment history. These systems cover every property in Bakersfield and throughout the county.

Contact the Kern County Assessor-Recorder at 661-868-3485. The office is at 1115 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301. Email questions to assessor@kerncounty.com. Visit kerncounty.com for forms and information.

For tax bills and payments, reach the Treasurer-Tax Collector at 661-868-3490. Pay online at kcttc.co.kern.ca.us or mail payments to P.O. Box 541004, Los Angeles, CA 90054-1004. The county uses a Los Angeles mailing address for payment processing.

Special Assessments in Bakersfield

Some Bakersfield areas have special assessment districts for street lights, landscaping, or local improvements. These charges fund services beyond what the base property tax covers. If your property is in an assessment district, you see an extra charge on your tax bill.

The amounts vary by district and property type. Some districts charge flat annual fees. Others calculate based on property frontage or lot size. The county collects these charges along with property taxes and distributes funds to the appropriate district.

Contact Kern County offices for information about which properties are in assessment districts. The county maintains records showing district boundaries and charge amounts. This information is public and available upon request.

Look Up Bakersfield Property Information

Use Kern County online systems to search any Bakersfield address. Enter the street address, Assessor Parcel Number, or owner name. The database shows current assessed value, property details, exemptions, and sales history. Access is free and available anytime.

To view tax bills, visit the Treasurer-Tax Collector website at kcttc.co.kern.ca.us. Search by parcel number or address. The system displays current bills, payment status, and any penalties. You can download bill copies and payment receipts.

Pay property taxes online through the county portal. Electronic checks typically have no fee. Credit cards charge processing fees based on payment amount. You can also pay by mail to the Los Angeles processing address or in person at county offices in Bakersfield.

Property Tax Exemptions for Bakersfield Owners

Bakersfield homeowners can claim the Homeowners' Exemption to reduce assessed value by $7,000. You must own and live in the property as your main home. File by February 15 with the County Assessor. Once approved, it renews automatically each year. Get forms at kerncounty.com or the Assessor office.

Veterans with service-connected disabilities qualify for additional exemptions. The amount depends on disability rating and income. Disabled persons under 62 also qualify for an exemption. Call the Assessor at 661-868-3485 for forms and eligibility requirements.

Senior citizens may postpone property taxes through the state program. You must be at least 62 years old with 40 percent home equity and household income under $55,181. Interest accrues at five percent yearly. Apply from October 1 to February 10 at sco.ca.gov.

Note: File all exemption claims before the February 15 deadline to ensure processing.

Bakersfield Property Tax Due Dates

Bakersfield property owners receive two tax bills per year from Kern County. First installment is due November 1 and becomes delinquent at 5:00 pm December 10 with a ten percent penalty. Second installment is due February 1 and delinquent April 10 with another ten percent penalty plus costs.

You must pay on time even if you do not receive a bill. Call 661-868-3490 to request a duplicate. You are responsible for knowing due dates regardless of bill delivery. The county mails bills to the owner of record as of January 1.

Online payments must be completed by 5:00 pm on the due date. Mailed payments need postmarks on or before the due date. In-person payments are accepted at county offices until 5:00 pm. Keep receipts and confirmation numbers as proof of payment.

Appeal Your Property Assessment

Bakersfield property owners can appeal assessed values through the Kern County Assessment Appeals Board. File between July 2 and September 15 each year. Get forms from the County Assessor or the Clerk of the Board. Some counties charge filing fees based on property value.

Gather evidence before filing. Recent sales of similar properties support your case. Professional appraisals help but cost money. Photos showing damage or poor condition also help. More documentation improves your odds of winning.

The Board schedules a hearing. You present your evidence. The Assessor presents their valuation. Board members review both sides and decide the correct value. You can represent yourself. Many property owners win appeals without professional help. Success reduces your assessed value and lowers your tax bill.

Get Help with Bakersfield Property Taxes

The Kern County Assessor staff answers questions about property values and assessments. Call 661-868-3485 or visit 1115 Truxtun Avenue in Bakersfield. The website at kerncounty.com has forms and information.

For bill and payment questions, contact the Treasurer-Tax Collector at 661-868-3490. Staff can explain charges, locate payment records, and help with payment plans if needed. County offices are in downtown Bakersfield.

The Taxpayers' Rights Advocate Office at the California Board of Equalization helps with property tax disputes. This independent office protects taxpayer rights statewide. Call 916-274-3400 or email traoffice@boe.ca.gov for assistance.

Other Central Valley Cities

Other large cities in the Central Valley also have property taxes handled by their county offices. Each may have different special assessments.