Madera County Board approves Easy SmartPay for property tax installment payments

Madera County has taken a significant step towards enhancing taxpayer convenience by approving a new agreement with Easy SmartPay Inc. during the Board of Supervisors meeting on March 18, 2025. This initiative will allow qualified taxpayers to pay their real property taxes through manageable monthly installments, making it easier for residents to meet their financial obligations.

The board unanimously approved the agreement, which will be in effect at no cost to the county until June 30, 2025, with an option for auto-renewal for additional one-year terms. This service is already utilized by 28 counties across California, providing a streamlined payment process for taxpayers who prefer to avoid lump-sum payments.

Easy SmartPay is designed to help taxpayers manage their property tax payments without the burden of bookkeeping. Taxpayers can choose to pay via ACH (automated clearing house) transactions at no cost, or through credit and debit cards, which incur a small fee. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for homeowners without mortgage impound accounts, as it allows them to make regular payments without the hassle of tracking multiple transactions.

The program aims to improve on-time payment rates, ensuring that the county collects necessary tax revenues efficiently. Additionally, taxpayers will have access to a user-friendly online dashboard to track their payment history and see how their tax dollars are allocated.

The board emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding this new service, encouraging collaboration with the public information team to ensure residents are informed about the benefits of Easy SmartPay. As Madera County moves forward with this initiative, it is poised to enhance the financial experience for its taxpayers, making property tax payments more accessible and manageable.