Q: When are property taxes due in Carroll County for 2025?
A: Property tax statements are mailed by April 15th. The spring installment is due May 10th, and the fall installment is due November 10th. These dates apply to taxes for the 2025 levy year.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: Carroll County offers several tax credits that require application: Standard Homestead Credit (reduces assessed value, requires filing), Senior Citizen/Disabled Credit (for households with income under $15,000, up to $4,000 reduction), and Veteran Disability Credits. Most credits are NOT automatic and must be applied for through the County Assessor's office.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit in Indiana provides tax relief by reducing your assessed value and capping annual assessment increases. It does NOT reduce your home's market value but limits how much your taxable assessment can increase each year (typically around 5-10%). You must file an application with the County Assessor to receive this credit.
Q: When is the application deadline for tax credits?
A: Applications for homestead and other property tax credits must be filed with the Carroll County Assessor no later than April 1st of the year for which the credit is first claimed. This typically coincides with filing your initial tax return for the property.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Carroll County?
A: Indiana requires annual reassessments, but properties are typically reviewed on rotating cycles unless there are significant market changes, new construction, or property improvements. You can appeal your assessment through the County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals if you believe it's incorrect.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Carroll County imposes penalties and interest on late property tax payments. Penalties typically start accruing after the May 10th and November 10th due dates, with additional interest charges applied monthly until the balance is paid in full.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Carroll County offers online property tax payment options through the County Treasurer's office website. You can pay by electronic check or credit card, though credit card payments may include processing fees.
Q: Why does my tax rate differ from my neighbor's?
A: Tax rates vary throughout Carroll County based on the specific combination of taxing districts that serve your property. Different school corporations, townships, library districts, and special service areas create varying total tax rates even for properties in close proximity.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax assessment?
A: Supplemental assessments occur when there are mid-year changes to your property value due to new construction, major improvements, ownership transfers that trigger reassessment, or corrections to previous assessment errors.
Q: How do special district taxes work in Carroll County?
A: Special districts provide specific services like fire protection, libraries, or school facilities and add their own tax rates to your bill. Your total tax rate is the sum of all applicable district rates based on your property's location and the services that benefit your area.
