Jonathan LopezWill I Get a Second Property Tax Bill After I Buy in Woodland Hills?
First-time buyers in Woodland Hills often budget for the mortgage and the regular property tax, then get surprised by a separate supplemental tax bill after closing. Here is how it works, using the County and State sources.
Why it happens
When ownership changes, California reassesses the property. Under Proposition 13 the new assessed value is the market value as of the date of the change in ownership (State Board of Equalization, Publication 29, March 2025). The supplemental roll puts that new value into effect right away. The LA County Tax Collector says you will receive one or more Supplemental Tax Bills if the value goes up, that they go only to the property owner, and that they do not replace the Annual Secured Property Tax Bill.
What the County warns about
The County states: "Do not ignore the Supplemental Secured Property Tax Bill." It says a lender usually does not pay these, that reassessments take about six months to process, and that filing an appeal does not suspend the obligation to pay. If the reassessed value is lower, you receive a refund.
A Woodland Hills illustration
Property tax is capped at 1 percent of taxable value plus voter-approved debt and special assessments (SBE Publication 29). Movoto shows a September 2026 Woodland Hills median sale price of $1,299,000. At that price the 1 percent base rate is about $12,990 a year, or about $1,082 a month, before voter-approved debt and special charges. That is an example, not your bill. Your supplemental amount depends on the reassessed value, the prior assessed value, how many months remain in the fiscal year, and the charges on that parcel. The County Assessor offers a Supplemental Tax Estimator for a specific home.
How to plan
Ask your lender and escrow officer what your monthly payment includes, assume a supplemental bill may arrive separately, and keep cash set aside for it. I am happy to run a monthly cost estimate on any Woodland Hills home you are considering.
Related reading: my first-time buyer page.
This is general information, not tax, legal or investment advice. Figures are averages or examples and may not apply to a specific property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a supplemental property tax bill?
A bill issued when a property is reassessed after a change in ownership or new construction. It is in addition to the regular annual bill (LA County Tax Collector).
Does my lender pay it?
The County says your lender usually does not. Confirm with your lender and escrow officer how your loan handles it.
How long after closing does it arrive?
The County says reassessments take about six months to process, so it can arrive well after move-in.
Can I appeal the new value?
Yes, but filing an appeal does not suspend the obligation to pay (LA County Tax Collector).
What if the reassessed value is lower?
You receive a refund (LA County Tax Collector).
How much will mine be?
It depends on the property. The Assessor has a Supplemental Tax Estimator. The $12,990-a-year figure is only the 1% base rate on the median price.
Thinking about buying or selling in Woodland Hills?
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