Q: When are Henderson County property taxes due for the current fiscal year?
A: Property tax bills are typically mailed in September and are due by December 31st each year. There's a 2% discount available if you pay between September 15 - November 1.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: The primary tax credit available is the homestead exemption worth $49,100 for the 2025-2026 assessment years. This credit requires application and is NOT automatic. Additional credits may be available for disabled veterans, elderly residents, or disabled persons - all requiring separate applications with specific deadlines.
Q: How does the homestead credit work?
A: The homestead exemption reduces your assessed value by $49,100, which reduces your tax bill. This is not a cap on assessment increases but rather a fixed reduction in taxable value. You must apply for this exemption - it's not automatically granted when you buy a home.
Q: When do I need to apply for tax credits?
A: Applications for most tax credits, including the homestead exemption, must typically be filed with the Henderson County Property Valuation Administrator (PVA) by December 31st of the tax year. Contact the PVA office for specific deadlines and application requirements.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Henderson County?
A: Kentucky requires properties to be assessed annually at fair market value as of January 1st. The Henderson County PVA conducts regular reviews and physical inspections on a rotating basis throughout the county.
Q: What if I disagree with my property assessment?
A: You can appeal your assessment to the Henderson County Board of Assessment Appeals. Appeals must typically be filed by the third Monday in May following the assessment. Contact the PVA office for specific procedures and deadlines.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Property taxes not paid by December 31st become delinquent and incur penalties and interest. After the due date, additional collection fees and interest charges apply, and the property may eventually be subject to tax sale proceedings.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Henderson County Sheriff's Office to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods. Many Kentucky counties now offer online payment systems for property taxes.
Q: Why is my tax rate different from my neighbor's?
A: Tax rates vary within Henderson County based on special taxing districts. Your property may be served by different fire districts, library districts, or fall within different municipal boundaries than your neighbors, resulting in different total tax rates.
Q: What special district taxes might apply to my property?
A: Depending on your location, you may pay additional taxes for fire protection districts, library services, municipal services (if within city limits), and other special assessment districts. These are added to the base county rate and vary by location within the county.
