The second half tax bills are going out and this time residents might notice an additional piece of information traveling with them in the mail.
Union County Treasurer Andrew Smarra told officials this week that mail going out to residents this month will contain a pamphlet about the county’s pre-pay program.
“We got the approval from the state to include a little pamphlet in with the tax bill about the pre-paid program so that people are aware that it exists,” he said. “The pre-paid program is kind of like an escrow program with mortgage companies except you’re escrowing with us.”
The Real Estate Tax Escrow Program is a “unique plan that eases the strain of the semi-annual tax payments by helping the taxpayer budget their current taxes into monthly payments,” according to the pamphlet.
How it works is a resident enrolls and then their semi-annual real estate tax bill is pre-paid by being divided into equal monthly payments.
That way paying it doesn’t come in two lump sums in February and July.
“For someone who is trying to retire, it’s a great monthly budgeting option,” said Commissioner Dave Burke.
According to the pamphlet, the best month to enroll is in August since the taxes have to be paid for the current half to enroll in the program.
“For example, to enroll in August, taxes for the year must be paid in full,” the pamphlet notes. “If enrolling January-May, taxes for the first half (February) must be paid.”
Smarra said since bills are due in July, some residents may have already received their bills, others could in the next week.
If payments are late, there will be charged 10% on outstanding amount but if it’s paid within 10 days from due date, the penalty is reduced to 5%.
Taxes can be paid by mail and have to be postmarked on or before the due date, in person at the county office building on West Sixth Street or online.
The deadline for second half payment is July 17.