Q: When are property taxes due in Livingston County for the current fiscal year?
A: Due dates vary by taxing jurisdiction. School district taxes are typically due in September, while town and county taxes are generally due in January. Contact your specific tax collectors for exact dates as each municipality sets its own schedule.
Q: What tax credits are available and how do I apply?
A: The STAR program provides school tax relief for primary residences (requires annual income verification and application). Senior Citizens Exemptions and Veterans Exemptions are also available but require separate applications with documentation. None of these credits are automatic - you must apply directly with the assessor's office.
Q: How does the Homestead exemption work?
A: New York's STAR program serves as the primary homestead benefit, providing school tax credits rather than limiting assessment increases. This is a tax credit that reduces your school tax bill, not an exemption that caps assessed value growth. You must apply annually and meet income requirements.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Livingston County?
A: Assessment schedules vary by town within Livingston County. Some towns reassess annually while others operate on multi-year cycles. Contact your town assessor's office for your specific reassessment schedule and appeal deadlines.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payment penalties vary by tax collector but typically include interest charges of 1-1.5% per month plus potential penalty fees. Some jurisdictions may also charge collection costs or initiate tax lien procedures for severely delinquent accounts.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Livingston County provides online payment options through their Tax Payment Portal accessible via the county website. Individual towns and school districts may also offer online payment systems for their respective tax bills.
Q: Why do I receive multiple property tax bills?
A: You receive separate bills because different taxing jurisdictions (county, town, school district, special districts) collect their own taxes independently. Each entity sets its own due dates and payment procedures.
Q: What special district taxes might I pay?
A: Depending on your location, you may pay fire district taxes, library district taxes, water district assessments, sewer district charges, or lighting district fees. These appear as separate line items on your tax bills and vary by the specific services available in your area.
