Each week, Wayne County Treasurer Raymond Wojtowicz will use this column as a regular forum to inform you about the tax process and to answer the questions most frequently asked about property taxes.
Always remember that your property is your most precious asset. Do not risk losing it for nonpayment of property taxes. If in doubt, ask questions.
Q. When and how many current real property tax bills will I receive each year?
A. Your local treasurer will send two tax bills each calendar year, a summer tax bill in July and a winter tax bill in December. If you do not receive a summer and/or winter tax bill, call or visit your local city, township or village treasurer where the property is located and request a tax bill. At the same time, check to make sure the treasurer has your correct mailing name and address.
Q. When are current property taxes due and when do they become delinquent?
A. Each year, current summer taxes are due July 1, and the current winter taxes are due Dec. 1, and are payable to the local treasurer until the last day in February. According to state law, on March 1, unpaid property taxes become delinquent and are sent to the county treasurer for billing and collection with additional penalties and interest, computed with a 4 percent penalty, and 1 percent per month for the first year.
Q. What is the deadline for paying current taxes to the local treasurer?
A. Your local treasurer can accept current real property tax payments through the last day in February.
If you have any questions or issues related to delinquent property taxes in Wayne County, please call our Taxpayer Assistance Department at (313) 224-6105.