Q: When are Clark County property taxes due for 2025?
A: Property taxes for 2025 are due in two installments: first installment due April 30, 2025, and second installment due October 31, 2025. Tax statements are typically mailed in February and September.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: Several tax credits require annual application including the Senior Property Tax Exemption, Disabled Person Property Tax Exemption, and Veterans' Exemption. These are not automatic and must be filed with the Assessor's Office by December 31st annually with required income documentation.
Q: How does the homestead exemption work in Washington?
A: Washington does not have a traditional homestead exemption. However, qualifying seniors and disabled persons can receive exemptions that reduce assessed value for tax purposes. The Senior Exemption can exempt up to $80,000 in assessed value for qualifying households.
Q: When does the county reassess property values?
A: Clark County assesses all properties annually with assessments reflecting market value as of January 1st. Assessment notices are typically mailed in late April, and property owners have until July 1st to file appeals with the Board of Equalization.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Interest and penalties apply to delinquent taxes at 1% per month. If the first installment is not paid by April 30th, the entire year's taxes become due immediately. Properties can be foreclosed for unpaid taxes after three years of delinquency.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Clark County offers online payment options through the County Treasurer's website at clark.wa.gov/treasurer. Payments can be made by electronic check or credit card, though credit card payments incur additional processing fees.
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Clark County?
A: Tax rates vary by location because different areas are served by different combinations of special districts such as school districts, fire districts, library districts, and port districts. Each district sets its own levy rate based on local budget needs.
Q: What is the Homeowner's Remodel Exemption?
A: This program allows qualifying improvements to single-family homes to be exempt from property tax increases for up to three years. Application must be filed with the Assessor's Office before beginning construction, and specific improvement types and value limits apply.
Q: How do special assessments work?
A: Special assessments are additional charges for specific improvements like street paving, sewer connections, or local improvement districts. These appear as separate line items on tax bills and may be paid in installments over several years depending on the project financing terms.
Q: What happens if I disagree with my property assessment?
A: Property owners can appeal assessments by filing a petition with the Clark County Board of Equalization by July 1st following the assessment notice. The appeal process includes a hearing where owners can present evidence of their property's correct value.
