Bogus property tax related mailings are still being received by area residents. The Los Angeles County Tax Assessor warns the deceptive mailings are coming from companies that use official-sounding names like "Tax Adjusters," "Tax Readjustment," or "Tax Review." 

The official looking notices offer to help the reader get a reduction in their property taxes. The assessor warns residents NOT to pay for a tax review that the county may already be doing for free.

The companies want potential victims to believe the companies themselves are government agencies or consumer help organizations. They offer services to help the reader get a reduction in their property taxes and may charge service fees that run into the hundreds of dollars.

Click for the website of the Office of the Assessor, County of Los Angeles page on this issue

Be aware that solicitations from private companies offering to pursue a reduction in property taxes must clearly indicate that they are NOT a government agency and that their services are NOT approved or endorsed by any government agency.

Failure to provide such notice is a violation of California law. If you or someone you know receives an illegal solicitation, please contact the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer Affairs by phone at 800-973-3370 or visit the assessor website.

Assessor is reviewing 500,000 homes

The assessor is already reviewing 500,000 single family houses and condos that were purchased between July 2003 and June 2008 that may have lost value and need their tax bills adjusted accordingly. In some areas, earlier purchases will be looked at. After April 1st, owners will be able to check the county website to see if their home is part of the review.

Please click here to see public service video, "Don’t Get Ripped Off."

See related news stories on KNBC Channel 4, KABC Channel 7, KCAL Channel 9 and Fox Channel 11.

Please click here to read Rick Auerbach’s Op-Ed article in the Daily News.