Frequently Asked Questions

Tax Information

Common Tax Problems

  • Have you refinanced lately?

    Many people find that their mortgage company did not pay their taxes. This can happen during the transitional period following a refinance. Please be sure that your mortgage company is paying the taxes. Call your Mortgage company, they will be responsible for interest and fees if they did not pay on time.

  • Do you have an escrow account for your taxes?

    Taxes are often left unpaid because mortgage companies miss paying them. Please watch your mortgage statements or call your local township/city treasurer's office to check that your taxes are being paid promptly. Although the mortgage company is responsible for making the payment, it is the property owner's responsibility to see that the taxes are being paid.

  • I am no longer the owner of this property and I keep getting delinquent notices. How do I get my name removed from the tax bill?

    Our office does not have the authority to remove your name from a tax bill. You must visit your local township/city assessor's office within the municipality of where this property is located with proof of sale, deed, or property transfer to have your name removed from the property.

  • I did not receive my current tax bill. Who do I need to contact, and can you waive penalties and interest?

    Your current tax bill is issued by your local township/city treasurer's office. Any questions or concerns regarding your current tax bill payment must be directed to your local treasurer's office. The Treasurer cannot waive any penalties and interest. The State Statue, which is mandated by law says, if you own property you will owe taxes.

Forfeiture/Foreclosure

  • Delinquent Taxes

    In 1999, a Michigan law, Public Act 123 (MCL 211.78) significantly shortened the time property owners must pay their delinquent taxes before losing their property. Property owners with taxes that are 2 years delinquent may be foreclosed and the property can be sold at a public auction. Not paying taxes will result in higher interest charges and fees. Taxes that are delinquent for more than one year will have a substantially higher interest rate (1.5% per month, as opposed to the current 1%), and will have a state mandated $175 forfeiture fee.

  • What does “forfeiture” mean? Does that mean I lose the property?

    The Forfeiture date each year is March 1st – one year after your taxes are turned over delinquent to the county treasurer. THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT YOU HAVE LOST YOUR PROPERTY. “Forfeiture”, as defined in the property tax laws, means that your property is being PREPARED for foreclosure on March 31st after the forfeiture date. In other words, you have 2 years and 1 month to pay your delinquent taxes to avoid foreclosure.

  • What happens on the “forfeiture” date?

    The county is required to add a $175 title search fee, $60 for recording fees, plus additional interest is added to your tax bill. You must pay all your delinquent tax bill before March 1st to avoid these charges. After March 1st , the interest rate per month also increases from 1% to 1.5%

  • Can I get a list of foreclosed properties to purchase at your auction?

    Yes. The list is available approximately July 1st of each year. If you are looking for MORTGAGE FORECLOSURES, these are listed each week in the Grand Rapids Legal News. Mortgage foreclosures are not conducted by the County.

Principle Resident Exemption (PRE)