Q: When are property taxes due in Audubon County?
A: Property taxes for the current fiscal year are due by January 2nd, 2026. If January 2nd falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date extends to the next business day. Late payments are subject to penalties and interest charges.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: Iowa offers several tax credits that require annual application, including the Homestead Tax Credit (available to all qualifying homeowners), Military Service Tax Credit, and for 2023 and forward, an additional Homestead Tax Exemption for claimants age 65 or older. These are credits that reduce your tax bill, and all require application - they are not automatic.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: Iowa's Homestead Credit is not an exemption that reduces assessed value. Instead, it's a tax credit that reduces your actual tax bill and helps limit annual assessment increases. You must apply annually, and it provides protection against dramatic year-over-year tax increases while offering a direct credit against your tax liability.
Q: When are properties reassessed in Audubon County?
A: Audubon County assesses all properties annually as of January 1st. The County Assessor reviews market sales, property improvements, and other factors to determine assessed values. Property owners receive assessment notices in the spring and have specific deadlines to appeal assessments they believe are incorrect.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late property tax payments in Audubon County incur penalties and interest charges as specified by Iowa state law. Continued non-payment can eventually lead to tax lien sales. Contact the County Treasurer immediately if you cannot make timely payment to discuss possible payment arrangements.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Audubon County offers online property tax payments through their official website. You can pay via credit card or e-check, though convenience fees may apply. There is also a $2.00 per parcel charge for accessing property tax payment information online.
Q: How do special taxing districts affect my tax bill?
A: Your property tax rate includes levies from all taxing districts that serve your property, including school districts, city/township levies, hospital districts, library districts, and drainage districts. Properties in different locations within Audubon County will have different total tax rates based on which combination of these districts serve that area.
Q: What should I do if I disagree with my property assessment?
A: If you believe your property assessment is incorrect, you have the right to appeal. Contact the Audubon County Assessor's office at 318 Leroy St, Audubon, IA 50025 for information about appeal deadlines and procedures. Appeals typically must be filed within specific timeframes after assessment notices are mailed.
Q: Do I need to reapply for tax credits every year?
A: Yes, most tax credits in Iowa, including the Homestead Credit and Military Service Credit, require annual application. The application deadline and requirements may vary, so contact the Audubon County Assessor's office to ensure you don't miss important deadlines that could affect your tax liability.
Q: Where can I get help with property tax questions specific to my property?
A: For questions specific to your property's assessment, tax rate, or available credits, contact the Audubon County Assessor's office at 318 Leroy St, Audubon, IA 50025. For payment-related questions, contact the Audubon County Treasurer at the same address. Both offices can provide detailed information about your specific property's tax situation.
