Q: When are property taxes due in Eau Claire County for the current tax year?
A: For the 2025 tax year, the first installment or full payment is due January 31, 2026. If you choose to pay in installments, the second installment is due July 31, 2026. Tax bills are typically mailed around December 5th.
Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: The main tax credit is the School Tax Credit (up to $1,200 annually), which requires an annual application filed with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. The Lottery and Gaming Credit is applied automatically. A Homestead Credit may be available for eligible homeowners with limited income, but this requires application and has specific income thresholds.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit is designed to limit property tax increases for eligible homeowners, particularly seniors and those with limited incomes. It caps the amount your property taxes can increase from year to year, but it does NOT reduce your property's assessed market value. You must file an application annually with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue to receive this credit.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Eau Claire County?
A: Wisconsin law requires all properties to be assessed annually at fair market value. The county assessor's office reviews property values each year, with some properties receiving detailed inspections on a rotating cycle. Assessment notices are typically mailed in late spring.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Interest charges begin accruing on unpaid taxes after the due dates. The interest rate is set annually by state law. Additionally, if taxes remain unpaid for extended periods, the county may initiate tax deed proceedings to collect the debt.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Eau Claire County offers online payment options through their official website. You can pay by electronic check or credit card, though credit card payments typically include a convenience fee charged by the payment processor.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the local Board of Review, typically meeting in May each year. You have specific deadlines to file your appeal after receiving your assessment notice. The process allows you to present evidence that your property is overassessed compared to similar properties.
Q: Why did my taxes increase even though rates didn't change?
A: Property taxes can increase due to several factors: increased assessed value due to market appreciation, completion of improvements or additions to your property, or changes in special district assessments. Even if the tax rate remains stable, higher assessed values result in higher tax bills.
Q: What special district taxes might apply to my property?
A: Depending on your location, you may pay taxes to fire protection districts, lake management districts, sanitary districts, or other special purpose governments. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill and fund specific services in your area.
Q: How do I verify that my mortgage company paid my taxes correctly?
A: You can check payment status on the Eau Claire County website using your property's parcel number, or contact the county treasurer's office directly. Your mortgage servicer should provide you with copies of tax payment receipts, and you can request these if not provided automatically.
