Q: When are property taxes due in Kosciusko County for Tax Year 2024?
A: Property tax bills for Tax Year 2024 (Pay 2025) are typically due in two installments. Personal property returns must be filed by May 15th. Contact the County Treasurer for specific due dates as they can vary.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: The primary tax credit is the Homestead Deduction, which provides a $48,000 deduction from assessed value for Tax Year 2024. This is NOT automatic and requires application by January 15th. The property must be your principal residence as of December 31st.
Q: How does the Homestead Deduction work?
A: The Homestead Deduction reduces your taxable assessed value by $48,000 but does NOT reduce your property's market value. It also includes assessment growth caps that limit annual assessment increases. You must apply by January 15th following the assessment year.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Kosciusko County?
A: Indiana law requires annual assessments, but properties may not be physically inspected every year. Market value adjustments and trending may be applied. Major reassessments typically occur periodically to ensure assessments reflect current market conditions.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments are subject to penalties and interest charges. The exact penalty structure varies, but typically includes a percentage penalty plus monthly interest charges on the unpaid balance.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Kosciusko County Treasurer's office for current online payment options and accepted payment methods. Many counties in Indiana offer online payment portals for property taxes.
Q: How do special district taxes work?
A: Your property may be located within multiple special taxing districts (library, fire protection, school district, etc.). Each district sets its own tax rate, and your total tax bill is the sum of all applicable district rates multiplied by your net taxable assessment.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed within specific deadlines after receiving your assessment notice. Contact the Kosciusko County Assessor's office for appeal forms, deadlines, and procedures. You have the right to appeal to the County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax assessment?
A: New construction, substantial improvements, ownership changes that reveal unreported improvements, or assessor corrections can trigger supplemental assessments. These result in additional tax bills for the current tax year.
Q: Are there additional tax credits for seniors or veterans?
A: Indiana offers various tax credits for seniors, veterans, and disabled individuals. Contact the Kosciusko County Assessor's office for information about additional credits, eligibility requirements, and application procedures. Most require annual application by specific deadlines.
