La Puente "Scam Alert" **UPDATE
Nothing gets by these guys....
I noticed this on the homepage of the La Puente city Web site:
Scam Alert: No Fee Necessary for Prop 8 Review
Various private companies are sending mailings to property owners offering their services in pursuing a reduction in property taxes. These companies may charge hundreds of dollars to file a "Decline in Value Reassessment Application" on behalf of the property owner. These official looking letters could mislead people into believing they are from the County and convince homeowners to pay for a Prop. 8 review when the Assessor will be doing this FOR FREE!
Has this happened to anyone?
**UPDATE: I guess La Puente isn't the only one with a Scam Alert, I just noticed it on El Monte's Web site too.
I'm sure they were sent to people all over the state. Official-looking, but they don't claim to be from "the government" or your bank. Perfectly legal.
legal indeed and often more effective. Dealing direct with the assessor can be a nightmare and often result in failure to lower your taxes. Often, these companies are better suited and equipped to help you gain the reduction which is both deserved and allowed.