Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector - Salinas, California

Introduction to the Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector

For individuals and businesses operating within Monterey County, California, the Treasurer-Tax Collector serves as a vital link to the county’s financial operations. This office plays a crucial role in managing county funds, collecting taxes, and providing essential services related to property taxation and financial records. It’s an essential component of the County government office, ensuring transparency and efficient administration of public funds. This document provides a detailed overview of the Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector, outlining its location, contact information, services offered, accessibility features, and customer feedback.

Location and Contact Information

The Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s main office is strategically located at 168 W Alisal St 1st Floor, Salinas, CA 93901, United States. For immediate assistance, you can reach them by phone at 831-755-5057. Their official website, co.monterey.ca.us, offers a wealth of information and online services, streamlining the process for taxpayers and those requiring financial records.

Key Services Offered

The Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s responsibilities are extensive and encompass a wide range of services. These include, but are not limited to:

• Tax Collection: The primary function is the collection of property taxes, sales taxes, and other county-levied taxes.
• Title Searches: Providing title searches for property owners, ensuring clear ownership records.
• Payment Processing: Accepting various payment methods, including online payments, in-person payments, and mail-in payments.
• Record Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of all tax payments, property ownership, and other financial transactions.
• Tax Liens: Managing delinquent tax liens and the process for redemption.
• Escrow Services: Offering escrow services for real estate transactions.
• Investment of Funds: Investing county funds responsibly to maximize returns while minimizing risk.
• Tax Certificates: Issuing tax certificates to eligible taxpayers.

Accessibility Features

The Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector is committed to providing accessible services to all members of the community. The office features:

• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: A designated parking area is available for individuals using wheelchairs.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Entrance: The main entrance is designed to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring ease of access.
• Assistive Listening Devices: Available upon request for public meetings and presentations.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Currently, the Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector has 16 reviews on Google My Business. The average opinion is 1.8/5. While the overall average is concerning, it’s important to consider the individual feedback to understand areas for improvement. Many reviewers mention long wait times and difficulty reaching staff by phone. However, several reviews highlight the helpfulness of some staff members and the efficiency of online payment options. The office is actively working to address the concerns raised by customers and improve the overall service experience. It's recommended to explore individual reviews for specific insights and experiences.

Additional Points of Interest

Beyond the core services, the office maintains a strong commitment to public transparency and accountability. They regularly publish financial reports and provide online access to property records. The office also offers educational resources to help taxpayers understand their obligations and access available assistance programs. For example, they frequently host workshops and seminars on topics such as property tax assessments and payment deadlines. Furthermore, the office utilizes technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency, including online portals for property record searches and tax payment.

Recommendations for Users

For individuals seeking to pay property taxes, conduct a title search, or obtain other services from the Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector, the following recommendations are advised:

• Plan Ahead: Property tax payments are typically due in December, but it’s crucial to check the specific due dates for your property.
• Utilize Online Services: The website offers convenient online payment options and access to property records.
• Contact the Office in Advance: If you have questions or require assistance, contact the office by phone or email before visiting in person.
• Be Prepared with Documentation: When visiting the office, bring proof of property ownership and any relevant payment information.

The Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector plays a vital role in the smooth operation of the county’s financial system. While recent customer feedback indicates areas for improvement, the office is dedicated to providing efficient and accessible services to the public. By utilizing the available online resources and contacting the office directly, individuals can navigate the process effectively and ensure their financial obligations are met.

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👍 Reviews of Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector

Brandon T.

1/5

The Monterey County TAX assessor and collector are Crooks and thieves!In 2020-2023 the office had MY ADDRESS WRONG! I was mailed bills but never received them, they were returned to sender every time, and my home address was wrong due to their error! This office is supposed to be in charge of property taxes and the address they sent the bills to doesn't even exist in the entire state of California! You would think the tax assessor and collector would know that considering it's a "property tax" and the address isn't even a phsycial address! 😡

Upon moving out of state and updating my address I was notified I owed 3 years back taxes with astronomical fees/penalties. Plus they put a LIEN on my sailboat because of an error on their end, NOT THE TAX Payer FAULT BY ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM! Having absolutely no knowledge of these bills since they were all RETURN TO SENDER, I was forced to pay the fines and penalties or get more fines and penalties. So I went ahead a paid them. I have called numerous times for the refund I am due and just get passed around from person to person. I am due a FULL refund for this error on their end and shouldn't be put on tax payer! Fix this and I will change my 1* review. This is just NOT right! YOU ALL SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES!

List of the people I talked to many times but never properly fixed this issue = Kristen Agloro, Jake Stroud, Kristina, Art, Connie, Nate, and the list goes on and on. Still no one will take responsibility for the error and simply make it right! I guess this is why everyone can't stand California anymore..

sal V.

1/5

The online payment method is garbage. ACH payments are never working. Can't pay with credit card. Overall, Monterey should be ashamed of themselves. This is the 21st century. Use 21st century technology.

W N.

1/5

Tried for years to get them to remove my late sister from the tax bill. Filed all appropriate paperwork. Several phone calls, letters, but she is still on the bill. Dead people can’t pay taxes or own property in California, and yet the tax collector thinks they can.

Tim M. (. T. S. G.

1/5

I’m only leaving a one star review because I can’t leave a zero. I received a letter in the mail about a certificate of lein, after being transferred 3 to 4 different times I was connected with Rosalia (who stated I didn’t need her last name) I was inquiring about what the letter was for and she said that I received two other letters, one that I was supposed to fill out and send back, that they never got. She stated they taxed based off of what they thought I had an equipment. She was extremely passive aggressive about how it’s “weird” that I didn’t receive the other documents but somehow received this one. When I asked her what exactly a lien was, she told me that I can look it up online. I asked her if this is the number I’m suppose to call since it’s on the letter they sent me, she said yes! So shouldn’t you be able to answer a question about what a lien is? But I get it, most people like to be passive aggressive over the phone when they are asked questions they don’t know how to answer. Rosalia was no help whatsoever and wanted to transfer me for the 5th time.

Paul S.

5/5

Nobody likes paying tax, but these guys have always been helpful and courteous when I've called, even with questions I could've had answered elsewhere. No problem with efficiency courtesy or professionalism

dabz N. S.

1/5

INVOICE FRAUD ; This County is Sending the same overdue balance to the Franchise Tax Board more than Once and when confronted about it they’re blaming it on a system error on their end. duplicate, fake, or inflated invoice is knowingly sent to me trying to charge me same case 3x times literally I’m telling the truth
I’m going to report this to the California State Bar I haven’t live in Monterey county for 5 years this is INVOICE FRAUD

dylan K.

1/5

I only gave them one star because zero isn’t an option. People who take money from hard working Americans who already pay taxes are bums. The ticket prices are way to high. This is ridiculous. The system needs to change.

J L.

1/5

The keep leaving me messages for someone else, nonstop.