Q: When are Hampshire County property taxes due for the current tax year?
A: Property taxes are due in two installments: first installment due September 1, and second installment due March 1 of the following year. A discount may apply for early payment, while penalties and interest accrue from October 1 (first installment) and April 1 (second installment) for late payments.
Q: What tax credits are available and how do I apply?
A: Hampshire County offers various tax credits including homestead credits for primary residences, senior citizen credits, and disability credits. All credits require formal application through the Hampshire County Assessor's Office and are NOT automatically applied. Contact the assessor's office at the courthouse in Romney for specific application forms and deadlines.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit caps the annual increase in your property's assessed value (typically to 10% per year), rather than reducing the market value itself. This credit requires annual application and only applies to your primary residence. You must file with the Hampshire County Assessor's Office before the deadline, usually in early summer.
Q: How often is property reassessed in Hampshire County?
A: West Virginia law requires property to be appraised periodically, though the specific schedule varies by county. Hampshire County property owners will receive notice before any reassessment. If you disagree with your assessment, you can appeal to the Hampshire County Board of Equalization and Review.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Interest accrues on unpaid taxes from October 1 (first installment) and April 1 (second installment). Additional penalties may apply, and severely delinquent properties may be subject to tax lien sales. Contact the Hampshire County Sheriff's Office for specific penalty rates and payment options.
Q: Can I pay my Hampshire County property taxes online?
A: Contact the Hampshire County Sheriff's Office to inquire about online payment options, as availability varies by county in West Virginia. You can reach the sheriff's office at the Hampshire County Courthouse in Romney for current payment methods and options.
Q: Why is my tax rate different from my neighbor's?
A: Tax rates vary within Hampshire County based on special taxing districts such as fire districts, water and sewer districts, school district boundaries, and municipal taxes. Two properties on the same street may have different total tax rates depending on which special districts serve each property.
Q: How do I verify what special districts apply to my property?
A: Contact the Hampshire County Assessor's Office at the courthouse in Romney with your property address or parcel number. They can provide a breakdown of all taxing districts that apply to your specific property and explain how each affects your total tax rate.
