No delay in collecting property taxes despite coronavirus, Fresno County says
While many businesses are closed and most people have been asked to stay home for work while coronavirus is a threat, the government in Fresno County is expecting to collect property taxes on time.
Officials have said the safest way to pay taxes during the outbreak is with a check by mail.
The tax collector’s office will practice social distancing with those who go in-person to pay, according to Jordan Scott, the county’s spokesperson.
Property taxes are due April 10.
“The April 10 date remains unchanged as we don’t have the authority to change that, however there are and will be precautions in place to help keep the public and staff safe,” Scott said.
The state Franchise Tax Board and the IRS have pushed back the April 15 due date for income taxes to July 15.
The county declared a state of emergency in response to the virus but has not ordered people to stay home.
The city of Fresno announced a “shelter in place” order for all residents on Wednesday, a day before Gov. Gavin Newsom made the order statewide. The orders left room for essential services to continue, including first responders and grocery stores.
Following the order from the city, the Fresno City Council adopted some eviction protections and will waive any late fees for utility bill payments for those whose income has taken a hit over the response to the virus.
Fresno Councilmember Miguel Arias tweeted on Friday that Fresno County leaders should step in.
“(The city of Fresno) has taken swift action to support our businesses and residents with business fees/taxes, public utility payments, price (gouging and) moratorium on residential/commercial evictions,” he tweeted. “(It’s) time for (Fresno County) to help with removing late fees or delaying property taxes.”
