San Bernardino County warns of check fraud and mail theft

San Bernardino County Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector Ensen Mason is warning property owners to be aware of the potential of lost and stolen tax payments, following multiple reports of mail theft and check fraud involving mailed tax payments.

Recent ABC7 news coverage highlighted cases in Santa Clara County in which property tax checks were stolen from the mail, altered, and fraudulently cashed. The victim was not reimbursed by their bank or the county. San Bernardino County has also received reports of similar fraudulent activity. In these situations, homeowners do not receive credit for their payments and remain responsible for unpaid taxes, penalties, and additional fees.

“With the second installment deadline coming up, I strongly encourage property owners to pay their property taxes online,” said Ensen Mason, San Bernardino County Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector. “Mailing a check carries risk. There is no guarantee it will arrive, and taxpayers may be subject to penalties and interest in addition to the loss due to fraud if it is lost or stolen. Once a check is altered, recovery can be extremely difficult. Paying online is the safest and most convenient option.”

The second installment is due by February 1, but taxpayers have until April 10 to pay without penalty. Payments received after 5:00 p.m. on April 10 will be subject to a 10% penalty plus a $10 cost.

Secure online payments can be made at www.sbcountyatc.gov, where you can also find helpful information and answers to common questions.

“We have worked hard to provide a secure, easy-to-use system that protects taxpayers and makes paying your tax bill a little less taxing,” ATC Ensen Mason added. “Our highest priority is protecting public assets while delivering the best possible service to the public.”