Q: When are property taxes due in Porter County for the current fiscal year?
A: Property tax installments for Tax Year 2025 are due May 10, 2026, and November 10, 2026. Payments received after these dates are subject to penalties and interest charges.
Q: What is the Homestead Credit and how do I apply?
A: The Homestead Credit is a tax credit (not exemption) that must be applied for annually with the Porter County Assessor. It caps the annual increase in your property's assessed value, typically limiting growth to help long-term homeowners. You must file Form 322 by the deadline, usually March 31st, and the property must be your primary residence as of January 1st of the tax year.
Q: Are there other tax credits available that require application?
A: Yes, Porter County offers several tax credits including the Over-65 Credit for seniors, Disabled Veterans Credit, and Blind/Disabled Persons Credit. All credits require annual application with supporting documentation and have specific eligibility requirements and deadlines.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Porter County?
A: Indiana law requires annual updates to assessed values, though major reassessments typically occur on a cyclical basis. The County Assessor's office reviews market data annually and may adjust individual property assessments based on sales activity, improvements, or market trends in your area.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur a 10% penalty after the due date, with additional interest charges applied monthly. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to tax sale proceedings.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Porter County offers online payment options through their official property tax portal. You can pay by electronic check or credit card, though convenience fees may apply for credit card payments.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Porter County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals within specific deadlines, typically by the first Monday in May for the preceding tax year. You'll need to provide evidence supporting your claim that the assessment is incorrect.
Q: Why do properties in the same neighborhood have different tax rates?
A: Tax rates vary based on the specific combination of taxing districts that serve each property. Even neighboring properties may be in different school districts, fire districts, or municipal boundaries, resulting in different total tax rates despite similar assessed values.
