Q: When are property taxes due in Bonneville County for the current tax year?
A: Property taxes are due December 20th each year. You can pay in full by this date, or make a first payment by December 20th and pay the balance by June 20th of the following year. Personal property taxes for businesses are due March 15th.
Q: What property tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The main credits include the Homeowner's Credit (reduces taxable value, requires application by April 15th) and the Property Tax Reduction Program/Circuit Breaker (income-qualified credit, requires separate application). Most credits are NOT automatic and must be applied for annually through the County Assessor's office.
Q: How does Idaho's Homestead Credit work?
A: Idaho's homestead exemption caps the annual increase in your home's assessed value for property tax purposes, typically limiting increases to 3% per year for owner-occupied primary residences. You must apply with the County Assessor by April 15th annually, and you must occupy the property as your primary residence.
Q: When does the county assess property values and how can I appeal?
A: Property values are assessed annually as of January 1st. Assessment notices are typically mailed in April. You have until June 15th to appeal your assessment by contacting the County Assessor's office at 208-529-1320 or filing a formal appeal with the Board of Equalization.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Delinquent property taxes incur penalties and interest charges. After December 20th, penalties begin accruing monthly. If taxes remain unpaid, the county can eventually place a tax lien on the property and potentially foreclose.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Bonneville County offers online property tax payments through their official website. You can also pay by mail, phone, or in person at the County Treasurer's office. Credit card payments may incur additional processing fees.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Bonneville County?
A: Tax rates vary based on the special taxing districts that serve your property, such as different school districts, fire districts, highway districts, and local improvement districts. Urban properties generally have higher rates (0.857%) than rural properties (0.393%) due to additional services and districts.
Q: How do special district taxes work?
A: Special districts provide specific services like fire protection, road maintenance, libraries, or parks. Each district sets its own levy rate, and your total property tax is the sum of all applicable district rates. You can contact the County Assessor to determine which districts serve your property and their individual rates.
