Q: When are property taxes due in Phelps County?
A: Property taxes are due December 31st each year for the current tax year. The first half becomes delinquent on May 1st of the following year, and the second half becomes delinquent later in the year.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: Missouri offers several tax credits including homestead credits for owner-occupied properties (up to $1,100), senior citizen credits, disabled veteran credits, and agricultural use credits. All credits require separate application - they are NOT automatically applied to your assessment.
Q: How does the homestead credit work?
A: The homestead credit provides up to $1,100 in tax credit for owner-occupied residential properties. Importantly, this credit caps assessment increases rather than reducing market value, and you must file an application with the county assessor to receive it.
Q: How often is property reassessed?
A: Missouri law requires property to be reassessed periodically. Contact the Phelps County Assessor's office for the current assessment cycle schedule and to understand when your property was last reassessed.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Late payments incur penalties and interest charges. The first half becomes delinquent May 1st following the December 31st due date, with additional penalties applying to the second half later in the year.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Contact the Phelps County Collector's office for current online payment options and accepted methods of payment for property taxes.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Property assessment appeals must be filed with the Phelps County Board of Equalization during specified appeal periods. Contact the County Assessor's office for current appeal deadlines and procedures.
Q: Why is my tax rate different from my neighbor's?
A: Tax rates vary significantly within Phelps County based on which school district, fire district, municipal boundaries, and other special taxing districts your property falls within. Two adjacent properties can have different rates if they're in different taxing districts.
Q: What special district taxes might I pay?
A: Depending on your location, you may pay additional taxes for fire protection districts, emergency services districts, school bond issues, municipal services, library districts, or other voter-approved special assessments beyond the base county rate.
Q: How do I find out my specific tax rate?
A: Contact the Phelps County Assessor's office with your property address or parcel number to determine exactly which taxing districts apply to your property and your total effective tax rate.
