Homeowner beware: Filing your property tax exemption is free

I read your article and I can tell you that the same scam is happening in Los Angeles. My father-in-law received a letter yesterday from Homeowner Property Tax Assessor Corp, asking for $39.00 processing fee for the exemptions application.

I received a letter dated Dec. 3, 2007. Soliciting $39.00 for the filing of the exemption from Homeowner Property Tax Assessor Corp.
I had been searching for info regarding this company. I became a little more alarm when they requested my social security number for the form.
I am glad that I did not forward the check.

Victorville, CA

I glad I researched this! My dad received this letter dated 12/10/07. It looks very official because it includes the Assessor ID# and has an account number listed indicating the Due Date is NOW in the amount of $39. I'm glad my previous conversations I've had with my dad in NEVER providing a SS# has paid off. Thank you.

I read another article that reflects we should do the following:

Do not pay them anything, even if they harrass you with letters. You should actively file complaints at the following agencies and if there
are enough people being scam, the complaint can be brought up to the US District Attorney's office for a class action lawsuit against this
company or any company using this scheme.

YES, filing for the exemption is free and it is difficult to imagine what additional service would be worth a $39 fee. Better just keep the money or go out and treat someone nice to a good lunch.[Or even better?-- ha, but seriously, sign up for a good Real Estate Principles class at your local community college; if convenient, all are welcome at CSM - www.collegeofsanmateo.edu !] But, you knew that was coming. Well, just keep asking around for advice before signing anything (especially contracts or checks!). And, a very Happy New Year!

my father got this letter from home property tax assessor corp. the amount is for 49.00
the letter is from P.O. Box 291220 los angeles CA. who ever gets this letter you shouldnt send it back with money
ive tried searching for this company and nothing came up thank god i stopped my dad from sending it with actual money

I also rec'd this letter and I DID send the money thinking it was from my insurance/mortgage company. can anyone tell me who I can file a complaint with? I'm so upset right now I can't even think.

thanks!

Wow! I am also glad I researched this as well before I sent anything. It does look legit and of course if it saves me money, I would want to be interested. Good thing I delayed and didn't send them a dime. It asked me for $39 and DUE NOW. It had my property address and everything. How awful. Good luck out there. much happiness & especially love, stella

The same thing happened to me, I got a letter for $49 that are due now. I must admit I delayed sending the information because it never felt right. I feel awful my information is out there. Can anyone tell me if the $49 are a one-time rip-off or if they can collect more money from me?

I also rec'd this letter and I DID send the money thinking it was from my mortgage company. can anyone tell me who I can file a complaint with?

For residents of Los Angeles County, The Department of Consumer Affairs takes complaints against this company. You can complete a complaint form and return it to their office along with any copies of documents and receipts you would like for us to review at dca.lacounty.gov

County of Los Angeles
Department of Consumer Affairs
Real Estate Fraud Unit
500 W. Temple St., Suite B-96
Los Angeles, CA 90012

First of all , my question is how these Thiefs get people's address, and all informations?
I recieved a letter for$55.00 but on the envellope show STOP! Did you...-sign the exemption Processing Card?......-Include the required $ 45.00 processing fee?
I was confused, there is no Telephone No. Ineeded to call them and ask some questions
I searched online, I now know the reality about theme.
I am sure these Thiefs they know each other with some people in mortgages companies! or they work for mortgages Companies!

I'm so glad I did this search prior to sealing the envelope with my signed check of $55.00.

I also did a bit a research and saved myself from losing $50, but I beleive they have a lot of my personal information so if there is any identity theft, this is likely source. I beleive they may have my real estate documents and SS number... The FBI needs to raid their offices!

I didn't give them any money, but I actually thought the card was from the local tax office, and I put my social on it and sent it to them. How can this company continue to operate when the Consumer Affairs and everybody else already knows they're a fraudulent operation??? How many complaints do they need to receive?

Glad I researced this also. Looks legit, but I am always wary of companies with P.O. boxes and no phone numbers. Saved me $45. I am considering a creative response that may frighten them.

see above

These scumbags...I got this letter from them today May 30, 2008. I knew it was suspicious as soon as I opened the letter and sure enough, they are out to screw people out of their hard earned money.

It's May 31st and we got one too. If you notice the letter has no telephone number to contact them at, that should be the first clue. All I have to say is that you should all know NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, give out your ss#, dont you think the government knows it already???( yes) They don't need to ask you. Secondly, if it sounds too good to be true 9 times out of 10 it is. Common sence kids......

I got a letter from them too, but in Saqn Jose, CA. I was suspicious so I looked them up on the web and fopund all these c omments. Thanks. I'll see if I can file the application for free with the County !