Q: When are Benzie County property taxes due for fiscal year 2025-2026?
A: Property taxes are due by September 14th. Late payments incur 1% interest charges, and payments can be made online through the Michigan Automated Tax Payment System until 9:00 PM ET the day before the due date.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The Primary Residence Exemption is the main tax credit available, requiring annual application to your local assessor. Additional credits may include disabled veteran, senior citizen, and poverty exemptions - all requiring separate applications with specific deadlines and documentation.
Q: How does the Homestead/Principal Residence Exemption work?
A: This credit caps annual assessment increases at inflation rate or 5%, whichever is less, rather than reducing your home's market value. You must file an application with your local assessing unit after January 1st but before the day prior to the last day of the board of review meetings.
Q: When are properties reassessed in Benzie County?
A: Properties are assessed annually, with assessment notices typically mailed in February or March. Property owners have appeal rights through the local Board of Review, typically meeting in March, and can appeal to the Michigan Tax Tribunal if unsatisfied with local decisions.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur 1% monthly interest charges. Properties become delinquent after September 14th, and extended delinquency can eventually lead to foreclosure proceedings by the county treasurer.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Benzie County participates in the Michigan Automated Tax Payment System, allowing online payments until 9:00 PM ET on the day before the due date. Contact your local treasurer for specific payment options and any associated fees.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Benzie County?
A: Tax rates vary based on your specific location's combination of school district, township, and special taxing districts. Each entity sets its own voter-approved millage rate, resulting in different total rates across the county.
Q: How are special district taxes determined?
A: Special districts for services like fire protection, libraries, or road maintenance levy additional millages approved by voters within those district boundaries. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill and vary based on your property's location and the services provided.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax bill?
A: New construction completion, property ownership changes, splits or combinations, changes from tax-exempt to taxable status, or assessment corrections can trigger prorated supplemental tax bills for the remaining portion of the tax year.
Q: How do I verify my current exemptions and credits?
A: Contact your local township or city assessor to verify current exemptions on file. Most exemptions require annual or periodic reapplication and are not automatically renewed, so regular verification ensures you receive all eligible tax relief.
