Q: When are property taxes due in Delaware County?
A: Property taxes in Delaware County are generally due in January, with April 30th as the final deadline for unpaid taxes. However, due dates vary by municipality and taxing jurisdiction. School taxes typically have different due dates, often in September or October. Contact your local town/village tax collector and school district for specific due dates.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The main tax credit available is the STAR program, which provides school tax relief. Basic STAR and Enhanced STAR (for seniors 65+) both require annual application and have income eligibility requirements. The 2025 STAR credit was up to $964 in some Delaware County towns. You must apply - these credits are not automatic.
Q: How does the Senior Citizens Exemption work?
A: The Senior Citizens Exemption is available for property owners age 65 and older, reducing the assessed value of their property for tax calculation purposes. This is an exemption (reducing assessed value) rather than a credit (reducing tax bill). You must apply through your local assessor's office and meet income eligibility requirements.
Q: When are properties reassessed in Delaware County?
A: Assessment schedules vary by municipality within Delaware County. Some towns conduct annual updates while others may reassess every few years. Contact your local assessor's office for your specific reassessment schedule and current assessment roll information.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payment penalties vary by taxing jurisdiction within Delaware County. Generally, interest and penalties begin accruing after the due date, with rates typically ranging from 1-1.5% per month. Some jurisdictions may charge additional fees. Contact your tax collector for specific penalty structures.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Online payment options vary by municipality and school district within Delaware County. Many local tax collectors now offer online payment systems, but you'll need to check with each individual taxing authority as they maintain separate collection systems.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals in Delaware County must be filed with your local Board of Assessment Review (BAR) during the designated grievance period, typically in late spring/early summer. Contact your town assessor's office for specific deadlines and required forms. Appeals must be based on unequal assessment, excessive assessment, or unlawful assessment.
Q: Are veterans eligible for property tax benefits?
A: Yes, qualifying veterans may be eligible for the Veterans Exemption, which reduces assessed value for property tax calculations. This includes exemptions for disabled veterans and veterans who served during wartime periods. Applications must be filed with your local assessor's office with required military documentation.
Q: What happens if I don't pay my property taxes?
A: Unpaid property taxes in Delaware County can result in tax liens and eventual foreclosure proceedings. The timeline and process vary by municipality, but generally, properties with delinquent taxes may be subject to tax lien sales or direct county foreclosure actions after a specified period of non-payment.
Q: Do I need to pay taxes on special district services?
A: Yes, if your property is located within special districts such as fire districts, library districts, or improvement districts, you'll receive separate tax bills for these services. These are in addition to your regular county, town/village, and school taxes and have their own due dates and collection procedures.
