Q: When are Lewis County property taxes due?
A: Property taxes are typically due January 1st for the previous assessment year (e.g., 2024 taxes due January 1, 2025). School and village taxes may have different due dates, often requiring payment by 4:30 p.m. on the specified due date. Check your specific tax bill for exact dates.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require applications?
A: The School Tax Relief (STAR) program provides credits on school taxes and requires annual application with income verification. Senior citizens and veterans may qualify for additional exemptions that also require applications. Enhanced STAR provides larger credits for qualifying seniors. Most credits are NOT automatic and must be applied for annually.
Q: How does the Homestead exemption work in Lewis County?
A: New York's STAR program serves as the primary homestead benefit, providing credits that reduce school tax bills rather than capping assessment increases. This requires annual application and has income limitations. The credit amount is applied directly to school taxes, reducing the taxable assessed value for school tax purposes only.
Q: How often are properties reassessed?
A: Assessment practices vary by town within Lewis County. Most towns conduct periodic revaluations every 3-6 years, though some may assess annually. Property owners receive assessment notices and have the right to challenge assessments through the grievance process.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Late payment penalties and interest rates vary by taxing jurisdiction within Lewis County. Typically, penalties range from 1-2% per month on unpaid balances, with additional collection fees possible. Some jurisdictions offer brief grace periods.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Online payment availability varies by municipality within Lewis County. Contact your specific tax collector's office to determine available payment methods, which may include online portals, phone payments, or traditional mail payments.
Q: What if I receive multiple tax bills?
A: Lewis County properties may receive separate bills for county, school, town, village, and special district taxes, or combined bills depending on local practices. Each bill may have different due dates and payment locations. Verify all bills are paid to avoid penalties.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: File a Small Claims Assessment Review Petition by July 31st following the assessment. Contact your town assessor first to discuss the assessment informally. If unresolved, formal grievance procedures are available through the Board of Assessment Review.
Q: Are there special exemptions for firefighters and ambulance workers?
A: Lewis County has authorized partial property tax exemptions for qualifying volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. These exemptions require application and proof of service. Contact your local assessor's office for specific requirements and application procedures.
Q: What happens if I don't pay my property taxes?
A: Unpaid property taxes become liens against the property and accrue interest and penalties. Eventually, properties with delinquent taxes may be subject to tax foreclosure proceedings. Contact the tax collector immediately if you're unable to make payments to discuss possible payment arrangements.
