Q: When are property taxes due in Vigo County for 2025?
A: Property taxes are due in two equal installments: May 12, 2025, and November 10, 2025. Tax bills are mailed annually on or before April 15th. Late payments incur penalties and interest charges.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary homestead credit provides a standard deduction (currently $45,000) and caps property taxes at 1% of gross assessed value. You must file Form 103 with the County Assessor's office before April 1st of the assessment year, and the application must be refiled every even year to maintain eligibility.
Q: How does the homestead credit work exactly?
A: The homestead credit provides two benefits: a deduction from assessed value and a tax cap. The cap limits your total property tax to 1% of your home's gross assessed value, regardless of the calculated tax amount. This is a tax credit that reduces your actual tax bill, not an exemption that reduces assessed value.
Q: Are there other tax credits available that require application?
A: Yes, Indiana offers various tax credits including those for seniors (over 65), disabled veterans, blind or disabled persons, and over-65 low income residents. Each requires a separate application (typically Form 103 variations) filed with the County Assessor before April 1st, with most requiring biennial renewal.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Vigo County?
A: Indiana law requires annual assessment updates, though not every property is physically inspected each year. The County Assessor uses market data, building permits, and sales information to adjust assessments. Property owners receive assessment notices and have appeal rights through the County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late payments incur a 10% penalty on the first installment and 5% on the second installment, plus interest. Continued non-payment can result in tax sale proceedings where the county sells a tax certificate on the property.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Vigo County offers online payment options through the County Treasurer's website. Electronic payments, credit cards, and traditional mail payments are typically accepted, though convenience fees may apply for electronic payments.
Q: Why might my tax rate differ from my neighbor's?
A: Tax rates vary based on the specific combination of taxing units that apply to your property location. Different townships, school districts, municipalities, library districts, and special taxing districts (like TIF areas) create varying composite tax rates across Vigo County.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals within specified deadlines (typically 45 days from assessment notice). You'll need evidence of your property's market value such as recent appraisals, comparable sales, or evidence of assessment errors.
Q: What should I do if I receive a supplemental tax bill?
A: Review the supplemental assessment for accuracy and pay by the due date (typically 30 days from bill date). If you have an escrow account, notify your lender as supplemental taxes are usually not included in regular escrow calculations. You have the same appeal rights as regular assessments.
