Property taxes can now be paid in installments
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Although taxpayers will still have from October, when the tax bills are mailed out, until the end of February 2003 to pay their 2002 property taxes, they will now have a choice of making up to five partial payments rather than one lump sum.
Slatton, who is starting her seventh term as trustee, decided to implement the payment schedule with this year’s taxes, since other local governments in the state have done so with positive results.
“It’s working well for other counties,” Slatton said. “Anyone who wants to take advantage of it may do so. Otherwise, they’ll pay just like they’ve always paid.”
Slatton sent a letter to the state on June 11 to notify officials of the intent to take advantage of the new tax legislation. Slatton’s office received a reply on June 20 indicating the plan was acceptable and met the requirements of the state statute.
Slatton wants to emphasize taxpayers aren’t required to use the partial payment plan. They can still pay their taxes with one payment just as they always have.
The partial payment plan was developed, at least in part, with the hope it will be a budgeting aid for households on fixed incomes, such as retirees, or any family who might find it easier to budget several smaller payments rather than one large payment.
Slatton also wants to inform taxpayers about a state tax relief program which helps low income families with their tax bill.
“It’s a state-funded program,” Slatton said. “And anyone who is under $12,200 income per year can be on it. If their income is below that, and that’s the whole household income, then we can sign them up in this office.”
“We’ll fill out the application and send it in to the state office, and with their approval, then they’re going to pay a payment on their taxes.”
For further information on these programs, taxpayers can visit the Warren County Trustee’s office or contact them at 473-2935.