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BOE approves 2026 work group to standardize how counties value intangible assets
Summary
The California Board of Equalization voted Oct. 21 to form a 2026 work group to standardize how counties value intangible assets and rights and to update related Assessor’s Handbook guidance.
The California Board of Equalization voted Oct. 21 to form a 2026 board work group to review methods for valuing intangible assets and rights and to recommend updates to the Assessor’s Handbook.
Controller M. Cohen asked the board to convene the group, saying assessor guidance in handbook section 502 is outdated and court decisions since 1998 have altered legal precedent. "There are inconsistencies from county to county as to how intangible assets and rights are valued," Cohen said, and she asked the board to approve a series of meetings in 2026 with final recommendations by November.
The proposal calls for work group meetings in April, June and September 2026, with a final recommendations report to the board in November 2026. Richard Moon, chief counsel, said staff would review draft handbook language proposed by the work group so the board could see staff comments before any adoption vote.
Public commenters representing taxpayer and industry groups told the board they support the proposal. Mark Aprea of the California Alliance of Taxpayer Advocates said the issue is long overdue and urged a timely finish so the board’s next class can use the recommendations. "We commit to engaging with the state controller and her staff, with the BOE and with other interested parties to ensure a successful work group," he said. JC Lee of the California Taxpayers Association also urged a prompt review of the handbook.
The board voted to establish the work group. Vice Chair Salina Lieber made the motion; Member Vasquez seconded. The roll call showed unanimous support from members present.
Why it matters: Inconsistent treatment of intangibles can produce materially different assessments for similar assets across counties, with implications for taxpayers and local revenues. The work group will aim to provide uniform guidance for county assessors, assessment appeals clerks and taxpayers.
What’s next: Staff will provide details about membership, agendas and materials for the proposed meetings. The work group’s recommendations are due to the board on or before November 2026.
