Q: When are property taxes due in Williams County for 2025?
A: Real estate taxes are due February 15th and July 20th, 2025. Mobile home taxes are due March 1st and July 31st. The first installment of any installment plan must be paid by January 31st.
Q: What is the Homestead Credit and how do I apply?
A: The Homestead Credit is available to homeowners who are 65 or older, or totally disabled. This credit limits assessment increases rather than reducing market value. You must apply annually with the Williams County Auditor's office. Applications are typically due by the first Monday in June.
Q: Are there other tax credits available in Williams County?
A: Yes, Ohio offers various credits including the Disabled Veterans Credit, Senior Citizens Credit, and Current Agricultural Use Valuation (CAUV) for qualifying farmland. All credits require separate applications and are not automatically applied to your tax bill.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Williams County?
A: Ohio law requires counties to conduct full reappraisals every six years with triennial updates. Williams County follows this schedule, with the most recent updates affecting tax bills accordingly.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late payments incur penalties and interest charges. After February 15th, a 10% penalty is added to the first half payment. After July 20th, a 10% penalty applies to the second half. Additional interest accrues monthly on unpaid balances.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Williams County typically offers online payment options through the County Treasurer's website. Check the official Williams County website for current payment methods and any associated convenience fees.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Williams County Board of Revision within 30 days of receiving your tax valuation notice. You can also file complaints about current tax year valuations by March 31st of the tax year.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Williams County?
A: Tax rates differ based on which school district, municipality, township, and special districts (fire, library, parks) serve your property. Each district sets its own millage rates through voter-approved levies, creating varying total rates across the county.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax assessment?
A: New construction, major improvements, ownership changes that reveal unreported improvements, or corrections to previous assessments can trigger supplemental taxes. These are prorated based on when the change occurred during the tax year.
Q: Do I automatically receive tax credits if I'm eligible?
A: No, most tax credits require annual applications. Even if you received credits in previous years, you typically must reapply each year by the specified deadlines. Contact the Williams County Auditor's office for specific application requirements and deadlines.
