Q: When are property taxes due in Monroe County for the 2025-2026 fiscal year?
A: Winter tax bills are mailed in early December and are due by February 14th (some jurisdictions February 17th). A 3% penalty is added to any delinquent taxes after the due date.
Q: What is the Principal Residence Exemption and how do I apply?
A: The Principal Residence Exemption is a tax credit that reduces taxes on your primary residence by exempting the home from school operating millage (typically saving $300-600 annually). It also caps annual assessment increases at inflation or 5%, whichever is less. You must file a Principal Residence Homestead Exemption Affidavit with your local assessor's office. This is NOT automatic and requires application.
Q: What other tax credits are available in Monroe County?
A: Available credits may include disabled veteran exemptions, senior citizen exemptions, and poverty exemptions. Each requires a separate application with documentation submitted to your local assessor's office by specific deadlines. Contact your municipal or township assessor for specific requirements and application deadlines.
Q: When are properties reassessed in Monroe County?
A: Michigan law requires annual assessments, but most properties undergo detailed reappraisal every 3-5 years unless there are significant market changes or property improvements. Assessment notices are typically mailed in March, with appeals due by the second Monday in May.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: File an appeal with your local Board of Review by the second Monday in May. Contact your city or township assessor's office for the specific appeal form and procedure. You may present evidence such as recent appraisals, comparable sales, or photos showing property condition.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, most Monroe County jurisdictions offer online payment options through the county treasurer's website or individual municipal websites. Payment methods typically include electronic check or credit card (fees may apply for credit cards).
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Monroe County?
A: Different areas are served by different school districts, municipalities, townships, and special districts (libraries, fire departments, etc.). Your total millage rate depends on which combination of these taxing authorities serve your specific property location.
Q: What happens if I don't pay property taxes on time?
A: A 3% penalty is added immediately after the due date. If taxes remain unpaid, additional interest and fees accrue. After three years of delinquency, the property may be subject to foreclosure proceedings by Monroe County.
Q: How does new construction affect my property taxes?
A: New construction or improvements trigger a supplemental tax bill for the increased assessed value, prorated for the remaining months in the tax year. The assessor will issue this supplemental bill within 30-60 days of discovering the improvement.
Q: Do I need to reapply for exemptions every year?
A: Most exemptions, including the Principal Residence Exemption, remain in effect as long as you continue to qualify. However, some exemptions like poverty exemptions may require annual reapplication. Always verify with your local assessor's office about renewal requirements.
