Frequently Asked Questions
When are taxes due?
Real estate and personal property taxes are due September 1st
When must taxes be paid to avoid interest?
On or before January 5
What is the interest rate for delinquent taxes?
For real estate and personal property, the first month’s interest rate is 2%, then ¾% per month.
For registered motor vehicles, the first month’s interest is 5%, then ¾ % per month.
What if I don’t receive a tax bill?
Real estate and personal property tax bills are mailed each year, usually in July. If you do not receive a bill, contact the Collections Division and request a duplicate. Please remember, you are responsible for payment even if you do not receive a bill.
Registered motor vehicle bills are mailed on a monthly basis, based on the staggered registration system.
What if I sold the property and still receive a tax bill?
The January 1st owner is responsible for the bill. If taxes were prorated at closing, forward the bill to the new owner for payment.
What if my mortgage company is supposed to pay my taxes?
Tax bills are sent to the property owner even if your taxes are escrowed. Your tax bill also serves as your notice of assessed value for any personal property you own. You should forward a copy of the tax bill to your mortgage company to ensure payment.
Can payment arrangements be made on delinquent accounts?
Yes, but the arrangements must be kept in order to avoid other collection action, and are for a limited time and delinquency period only.
Can prepayments or partial payments be made?
Yes, our office accepts prepayments, for upcoming taxes on real estate and annual personal property, from January to June each year; prior to the annual billing. Partial payments are acceptable on current amounts due.
What action is taken if I do not pay my taxes or make payment arrangements?
Statutorily authorized collection remedies will be enforced, including but not limited to garnishment of wages, bank attachment, and property foreclosure.
I’m Active Duty Military, am I exempt from taxation?
Active duty members, claiming another state as their legal residence, may be exempt from paying personal property taxes. To qualify, you must submit a current copy of a LES (Leave and Earnings Statement). The Sailor & Soldiers Relief Act does not exempt military dependents or any civilian personnel. Personal property titled jointly is taxable on ½ the value of the personal property. Leased vehicles are taxable and due at full value.
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