Q: When are property taxes due in Racine County for 2025?
A: For most Racine County municipalities, property taxes are due in two installments: January 31st and July 31st. However, City of Racine properties have four installments due January 31st, March 31st, May 31st, and July 31st. Note that Racine County does NOT collect first installments - these are paid to your local municipality.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary tax credit is the Wisconsin Homestead Credit, which requires annual application through your Wisconsin state income tax return. This credit is income-based and phases out at higher income levels. Veterans may qualify for additional credits that also require application. These are NOT automatic and must be claimed each year.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit is filed with your Wisconsin state income tax return and provides a credit that reduces your property tax bill, not your assessed value. It's designed to help limit property tax increases for qualifying homeowners based on income. You must apply annually - it's not automatic.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Racine County?
A: Wisconsin law requires reassessment of all properties at least once every five years, though some municipalities may assess more frequently. You can appeal your assessment through your local assessor's office, typically within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur interest and penalty charges. After July 31st, all payments must be made to the Racine County Treasurer's Office, and delinquent taxes accrue interest monthly until paid in full.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Racine County offers online payment through ACI Payments (formerly Official Payments) for credit card, debit card, or electronic check payments. Third-party processing fees apply for these convenience payment methods.
Q: Why did my tax bill increase if my assessment stayed the same?
A: Tax increases can occur even with unchanged assessments due to increased levy rates from the county, municipality, school district, or special districts. Each taxing jurisdiction sets its own levy annually based on budget needs.
Q: What if I disagree with my property assessment?
A: Contact your local municipal assessor first to discuss your assessment. If unsatisfied, you can file a formal appeal with the local Board of Review, typically meeting in May. Appeals must be filed within specific deadlines, usually within 30 days of assessment notice.
Q: Are there special district taxes in my area?
A: Many Racine County properties are subject to additional special district taxes such as school districts, technical college districts, or municipal improvement districts. Your tax bill will itemize all applicable districts. Contact the County Treasurer's Office to understand which districts apply to your specific property.
Q: What happens if I don't pay my property taxes?
A: Unpaid property taxes become a lien against your property and accrue interest and penalties. Eventually, the county may initiate tax deed proceedings to collect delinquent taxes, which could result in loss of property ownership.
