Q: When are property taxes due in Marshall County?
A: Property taxes are due twice yearly - September 30th for the first half and March 31st for the second half of the fiscal year. Late payments incur interest and penalties, and unpaid taxes by April 1st may result in tax sale proceedings.
Q: What is the Homestead Credit and how do I apply?
A: The Homestead Credit reduces your taxable assessed value by $6,500 (as of 2024) and caps assessment increases. You must occupy the property as your primary residence and file an application with the Marshall County Assessor's office. This is NOT automatic and requires annual verification.
Q: Are there other tax credits available?
A: Yes, including Military Service Credit ($4,000 for qualified veterans), Elderly/Disabled Credit, and Agricultural Land Credit. All require separate applications with specific deadlines. Contact the Marshall County Assessor at (641) 754-6373 for applications and eligibility requirements.
Q: How often are properties reassessed?
A: Iowa law requires properties to be assessed annually as of January 1st, with assessment notices mailed by April 1st. Marshall County uses mass appraisal techniques and may physically inspect properties on rotating cycles or when improvements are made.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can request an informal review with the assessor between April 2-25, or file a formal protest with the Board of Review between April 2-30. If still unsatisfied, you may appeal to the Iowa Property Assessment Appeal Board.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Late payments incur interest starting the day after the due date, plus additional penalties. Properties with unpaid taxes by April 1st may be included in the annual tax sale, which can result in loss of property ownership rights.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Marshall County offers online payment options through their official website. Contact the Marshall County Treasurer at (641) 754-1543 for current online payment procedures and accepted payment methods.
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Marshall County?
A: Different areas are served by different school districts (BCLUW, Marshalltown, etc.) and special taxing districts for services like rural fire protection, library districts, and drainage districts. Your specific combination of districts determines your total tax rate.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax bill?
A: New construction completion, major improvements, property splits, ownership changes, or assessment corrections can trigger supplemental taxes. These cover the tax difference for the portion of the year after the change occurred.
Q: How do agricultural property taxes work?
A: Agricultural land receives special assessment treatment based on productivity value rather than market value, resulting in significantly lower taxes. Properties must meet specific criteria and applications are required to maintain agricultural classification.
