Q: When are property taxes due in Decatur County?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments annually. The first half payment is due by March 31, and the second half is due by September 30. Taxes become delinquent if not paid by April 1 (first half) and October 1 (second half).
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and how do I apply?
A: Iowa offers a homestead tax credit for eligible homeowners, with enhanced credits for seniors 65 and older as of 2023. These credits must be applied for through the Decatur County Assessor's office and are not automatic. The homestead credit also includes assessment limitation features that cap annual assessment increases. Application deadlines typically fall in early July.
Q: How does the homestead credit work?
A: The homestead credit provides both a direct tax credit and limits assessment increases on qualifying properties. It does not reduce market value but rather limits how much the taxable assessment can increase annually, providing protection against rapidly rising property values. You must apply with the county assessor to receive these benefits.
Q: What military service tax exemptions are available?
A: Iowa provides property tax exemptions for qualifying military veterans, including enhanced benefits for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. These exemptions reduce the assessed value subject to taxation and require application through the Decatur County Assessor's office with appropriate military documentation.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Decatur County?
A: Iowa law requires counties to maintain assessments at market value, with reassessment occurring as market conditions change. Properties may be physically inspected on rotating cycles, but assessments are reviewed annually. Property owners receive assessment notices and have appeal rights if they disagree with valuations.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur interest and penalty charges. Properties with delinquent taxes may be subject to tax sale procedures, with notices typically published in June for first-half taxes that remained unpaid after April 1.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Contact the Decatur County Treasurer's office to verify available online payment options, as counties vary in their electronic payment systems. Many Iowa counties offer online payment through their websites or third-party services.
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Decatur County?
A: Tax rates depend on which combination of taxing jurisdictions serve each property, including school districts, cities, townships, drainage districts, and other special service areas. Rural properties pay rural services levies while urban properties may have city taxes, creating different total tax rates across the county.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Decatur County Board of Review by May 31 following the assessment notice. Appeals require evidence that the assessed value exceeds market value, such as recent sales data, appraisals, or property condition information.
Q: What family farm tax benefits are available?
A: Iowa provides various agricultural tax benefits including family farm tax credits for qualifying agricultural operations. These require application through the county assessor and have specific eligibility requirements related to farm ownership, operation, and income levels.
