Q: When are property taxes due in Mahoning County for the current tax year?
A: First half 2025 real estate taxes are due March 6, 2026, though dates are subject to change. A 10% penalty applies to unpaid taxes after the due date. The Mahoning County Treasurer's office is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary tax credit is the Homestead Credit for eligible senior citizens (65+), disabled individuals, and disabled veterans. This credit requires annual application and is NOT automatic. The expanded homestead exemption for disabled veterans can shield up to $50,000 of market value from taxation. Contact the county assessor's office for specific application requirements and deadlines.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit caps the amount your property's taxable value can increase each year, typically limiting assessment growth to 10% annually rather than reducing the actual market value. This credit requires annual filing with the county auditor and is available to qualifying seniors, disabled persons, and disabled veterans who own and occupy their homes as their primary residence.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Mahoning County?
A: Ohio law requires counties to conduct reappraisals every six years and updates every three years. If you disagree with your assessment, you can file an appeal with the Mahoning County Board of Revision. Appeals must be filed by March 31st following the tax lien date.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: A 10% penalty is automatically assessed on unpaid taxes after the due date. Interest may also accrue on delinquent amounts. Prolonged non-payment can result in tax lien proceedings and potential foreclosure.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Mahoning County provides online payment options through their website. Accepted payment methods include Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Convenience fees may apply for online payments.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Mahoning County?
A: Tax rates vary based on which combination of taxing districts your property falls within, including different school districts, municipalities, townships, library districts, park districts, and special assessments. Each jurisdiction sets its own levy rates.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax bill?
A: Supplemental taxes are issued for new construction, major improvements, ownership changes that trigger reassessment, or corrections to previous assessments. These create separate bills with their own due dates in addition to regular property tax statements.
Q: How do I apply for available tax credits?
A: Contact the Mahoning County Auditor's office for homestead and other credit applications. Most applications have annual deadlines and require documentation of eligibility such as age verification, disability status, or veteran status. Applications are typically due by December 31st for the following tax year.
Q: What services do my property taxes fund?
A: Property taxes fund local schools, county government operations, municipal services, townships, libraries, parks, mental health services, health districts, and various special districts like fire protection and lighting districts.