SB 30 Passes Major Milestone

Senate Bill 30, the bill to reinstate the California state tax exemption for cancelled or forgiven mortgage debt of qualified homeowners, passed a major hurdle on May 23, 2012, when the legislation was passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee by a 7-0 vote.

While the bill still requires a vote by the full senate, as well as Governor Brown’s signature, the likelihood of ultimate passage of the bill seems much higher following the unanimous approval by this very key committee.

As background, the previous tax exemption expired on December 31, 2012, and has remained mired in the legislative weeds while the governor and legislature battle over other state funding priorities.  The result has been significant uncertainty in the “distressed property” market, with real estate professionals and “underwater” homeowners lacking clarity on whether there would be state income tax consequences following a short sale, foreclosure, deed in lieu of foreclosure, or other mortgage debt cancellation event.

(The federal tax exemption for qualified homeowners was renewed in February 2013, and remains in place through the end of this year.)

If passed, the bill will amend Section 17144.5 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code, to provide for a one-year extension of the state tax exemption for certain cancelled mortgage debt.  It is not expected the exemption will be renewed again, so that any homeowner seeking its protection must conclude her/his transaction by December 31, 2013.  Since a short sale can take several months to close, it is recommended that individuals considering this option immediately consult with a qualified real estate professional, as well as seeking advice from experienced attorney and tax adviser.