Q: When are Stevens County property taxes due for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes are paid in two installments - one-half is due December 20th and the remaining half is due the following June. Delinquent taxes accrue interest after these statutory deadlines.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: Kansas offers a Homestead Refund program providing up to $700 in property tax rebates for qualifying homeowners. This requires annual application and is not automatic. Contact the Stevens County Assessor for other available credits and application requirements.
Q: How does the Homestead credit work?
A: The Homestead program caps assessment increases rather than reducing market value directly. It limits how much your assessment can increase year-over-year. You must file an application to receive this benefit - it is not automatically applied.
Q: When are properties reassessed in Stevens County?
A: Kansas conducts annual property assessments with values set as of January 1st each year. If you disagree with your assessment, you can appeal to the county board of equalization, typically between late March and early May.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Interest accrues on delinquent taxes after the statutory due dates. Contact the Stevens County Treasurer for current penalty rates and payment options if you've missed a due date.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Many Kansas counties offer online payment options. Contact the Stevens County Treasurer's office to verify available electronic payment methods and any associated fees.
Q: Why did my tax bill change if my assessment stayed the same?
A: Your total tax bill depends on the mill levies set by all taxing jurisdictions where your property is located. Even with the same assessment, changes in school district levies, county rates, or special district assessments can affect your total bill.
Q: How do special district taxes work in Stevens County?
A: Depending on your property's location, you may pay taxes to fire districts, library districts, or other special purpose districts. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill but are collected together by the county treasurer.