Q: When are Ottawa County property taxes due for the current tax year?
A: For Tax Year 2025, the first half payment is due February 19, 2026. The second half is typically due in July 2026. After February 28, taxes must be paid directly to Ottawa County rather than local municipalities.
Q: What is the Principal Residence Exemption and how do I apply?
A: The Principal Residence Exemption is a tax credit that reduces your taxable value and must be applied for annually. It exempts a portion of your primary residence's value from school operating taxes. You must own and occupy the property as your principal residence and file the appropriate application with the Ottawa County Assessor by the deadline.
Q: Does the Homestead Exemption cap my assessment increases?
A: Michigan's assessment cap limits annual increases in taxable value to the lesser of 5% or the inflation rate for all properties. This is automatic and doesn't require application. However, when property changes ownership, the taxable value can increase to the current assessed value (uncapping).
Q: What other tax credits are available and do they require applications?
A: Ottawa County offers various tax credits including disabled veteran exemptions, senior citizen exemptions, and poverty exemptions. All of these require separate applications with specific documentation and have annual filing deadlines. Contact the Ottawa County Assessor's office for specific eligibility requirements and application forms.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Ottawa County?
A: Properties are reassessed annually, with market value updates based on recent sales data and property characteristics. You'll receive a notice of assessment changes each year, typically in February or March, with information on how to appeal if you disagree.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur interest charges and penalties. After the February due date, interest begins accruing monthly. If taxes remain unpaid, the property may eventually be subject to foreclosure proceedings through the county treasurer.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Ottawa County offers online payment options through their official website. You can pay by electronic check or credit card, though credit card payments may include processing fees. Check the Ottawa County website for current payment portal links and accepted payment methods.
Q: Why did I receive a supplemental tax bill?
A: Supplemental taxes are issued when there are significant changes to your property during the tax year, such as new construction, major improvements, or ownership changes that affect the assessment. The supplemental amount represents the additional tax owed for the remaining months of the current tax year.
Q: How do special districts affect my tax rate?
A: Your total property tax rate includes millages from multiple taxing authorities: Ottawa County, your school district, municipality, and any special districts (fire, library, etc.). This is why rates vary significantly throughout the county depending on your exact location and which services your property receives.
Q: What should I do if I disagree with my property assessment?
A: You can appeal your assessment by contacting the Ottawa County Board of Review during their annual review period, typically in March. You'll need to provide evidence such as recent comparable sales, appraisals, or documentation of property condition issues that may affect value.
