Q: When are property taxes due in Marinette County for 2025?
A: First half payment is due January 31, 2025. Second half is due July 31, 2025. You may pay the full annual amount by January 31st. Reminder notices are mailed in September.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: Wisconsin offers several tax credits including the School Levy Tax Credit (automatic), Lottery Credit (automatic), and First Dollar Credit (automatic). The Homestead Credit requires annual application and must be filed by your income tax deadline. Veterans may qualify for additional credits that require separate application.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit limits annual assessment increases to help control property tax growth for qualified homeowners. It does not reduce your property's market value but caps how much your assessment can increase year-over-year. You must apply annually through the Wisconsin Department of Revenue, and eligibility depends on income limits and residency requirements.
Q: How often are properties assessed in Marinette County?
A: Wisconsin law requires all property to be assessed annually as of January 1st. However, physical inspections may not occur every year. The county must maintain assessments at fair market value and complete a full revaluation cycle periodically.
Q: Can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Yes. You may file an appeal with your local Board of Review, typically meeting in May. Appeals must be filed by specific deadlines, usually within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. You can also appeal to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue if unsatisfied with the Board of Review decision.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Wisconsin charges 1% interest per month on delinquent property taxes. Properties become tax delinquent if first half payments aren't made by January 31st or second half by July 31st.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Marinette County Treasurer's office directly for current online payment options and accepted payment methods. Many Wisconsin counties offer online payment systems for property taxes.
Q: What are special district taxes?
A: Special districts provide specific services like fire protection, sanitary services, or lake management. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill and rates vary by location depending on which districts serve your property.
Q: Do I qualify for any exemptions as a senior citizen or veteran?
A: Wisconsin offers various exemptions and credits for seniors, veterans, and disabled persons. Most require annual application and have specific eligibility requirements including income limits, age requirements, or disability status. Contact the Marinette County Clerk for specific application procedures and deadlines.
Q: What if I disagree with special assessments on my property?
A: Special assessments for improvements like roads or utilities have separate appeal processes from regular property taxes. You typically have 30 days from notification to file an appeal with the local governing body that imposed the assessment.
