Property Tax Drive-Thru “Drop-n-Go” Payment Program

About the Program

Category: County Administration and Management (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

While the San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office offers multiple payment options, each year a large number of taxpayers drive down to the County Administration Center, visit the Tax Collector’s Main Office in person and choose to “park and pay” just prior to the property tax delinquent dates of April 10 and December 10. As a result, taxpayers may face long lines that require additional Tax Collector staff to greet, inform, direct and process their payments. The overall result can and does create frustration for the taxpayers. Additionally, the influx of taxpayers coming into the office creates a number of challenges and negatively impacts efficiencies of the overall tax collection process. In an effort to find ways to better meet taxpayer needs, mitigate wait times, increase efficiency, and enhance customer service, a Property Tax Drive-Thru “Drop-n-Go” Payment was implemented for periods prior to the secured property tax delinquent dates. This program provides a drive-thru payment drop off area outside of the County Administration Center staffed by Treasurer-Tax Collector staff. It allows taxpayers who would otherwise have to park and pay inside the Tax Collector’s Main Office, to safely, quickly and securely drop their property tax payment off from their car.