County officials warn seniors of property tax scam

County officials are warning property owners, especially seniors, to be on alert for a scam circulating online and by phone that falsely claims a tax form can reduce or freeze property taxes.

The warning centers on a fake “1098-SR” form. Officials said no such IRS form exists for reducing, freezing or otherwise lowering property taxes for seniors. Scammers are promoting the bogus form through videos, social media posts and phone calls, and may use the claim to pressure residents into giving up personal or financial information.

 Officials urged residents to act with caution and verify before responding to any unsolicited tax-relief offer.

•Do not provide personal or financial information to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly about a property tax program.

• Do not click links or submit information on websites claiming to process a 1098-SR form.
• Verify any property tax relief program directly with the county assessor or another official government source.
• Report suspected scams to the appropriate authorities.

California does offer legitimate property tax programs for eligible homeowners, including the Homeowners’ Exemption, Proposition 19 and the Property Tax Postponement Program administered by the State Controller’s Office.

County officials emphasized that none of those programs is connected to any so-called 1098-SR form.

Because scam messages can appear convincing, residents should stop before responding, verify information through an official government website or call the agency directly using a known, legitimate phone number.

Officials also urged residents to share the warning with relatives, friends and neighbors who may be targeted.