California provides a $7,000 reduction in the taxable value of a qualifying owner-occupied home. The home must have been the principal place of residence of the owner on January 1. To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located. First-time filers may file any time after the property or claimant becomes eligible, but no later than February 15 to receive the full exemption for that year.
