Q: When are property taxes due in Lawrence County for FY 2025-2026?
A: Property tax due dates vary by municipality within Lawrence County. Contact your local tax collector for specific due dates, as some areas may have different collection schedules and discount periods for early payment.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: Lawrence County offers Homestead and Farmstead tax credits that must be applied for annually. These are NOT automatic and require submitting the "Lawrence County Application for Homestead and Farmstead Exclusion." Senior citizen and disability credits may also be available in some municipalities.
Q: How does the Homestead credit work?
A: The Homestead credit in Pennsylvania typically limits assessment increases rather than reducing the total assessed value. It does not reduce your home's market value assessment but may cap how much your assessment can increase year-over-year. You must file an application to receive this benefit.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Lawrence County?
A: Pennsylvania law requires counties to reassess properties periodically to maintain uniform assessments. Lawrence County updates tax maps and assessment data regularly, with a major update scheduled for November 17, 2025. Property owners can appeal assessments through the Board of Assessment Appeals.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late property tax payments in Lawrence County incur penalties and interest charges. The specific penalty structure varies by municipality, so contact your local tax collector for exact rates and deadlines.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Online payment options vary by municipality within Lawrence County. Contact your local tax collector's office to determine available payment methods, which may include online portals, phone payments, or mail-in options.
Q: What is LERTA and how does it affect my taxes?
A: LERTA (Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance) provides tax exemptions for qualified improvements to deteriorated properties. The Lawrence County LERTA program offers a 5-year exemption schedule starting at 100% and declining by 20% each year. Property owners must apply for this program.
Q: Who do I contact about my property tax bill?
A: For assessment questions, contact the Lawrence County Assessment Office. For tax collection and payment questions, contact your municipal tax collector, as collection is handled at the local level rather than by the county.
Q: What special districts might affect my tax rate?
A: Depending on your location, you may be subject to additional taxes from school districts, fire protection districts, water authorities, lighting districts, or recreation districts. These are reflected in your total mill rate and appear as separate line items on your tax bill.
Q: How do I verify my property's assessed value?
A: You can verify your property's assessed value through the Lawrence County Assessment Office. They maintain property records and can provide information about how your assessment was determined using the current Common Level Ratio factor of 2.13.
