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| Assessing |
| General City & Historical Commission |
| Miscellaneous |
| Treasurer |
| Water & Sewer |
Assessing
2. Can my taxable value increase more than the rate of inflation?
3. If my taxes are now based on taxable value, why is there an assessed value?
5. How was my assessed value determined?
6. I haven’t made any improvements to my house. Why did my assessed value change?
7. Why is my change in assessed value different than my neighbors?
8. My assessed value didn’t change, but my taxable value increased. Why?
9. How do I know if my assessed value is reasonable?
10. I just bought a new house, why isn’t my assessed value one half of my sale price?
11. What if I disagree with the assessed value on my property?
12. What is a property transfer affidavit?
13. Where do I obtain and file the affidavit?
14. What is the purpose of the affidavit?
15. What is a “transfer of ownership”?
16. What happens after ownership of a property is transferred?
17. Are some types of transfers exempt from adjustment (uncapping)?
18. What is the Homestead or Homeowners Principal Residence Exemption?
19. How do I qualify for the exemption?
21. What if I stop using my home as my primary residence?
22. What if I sell my house and buy a new one?
26. What is a Poverty Exemption?
27. How do I qualify for a Poverty Exemption
28. When do If file for the Poverty Exemption?
30. What period does my taxes cover?
31. How are my taxes computed?
32. Why did my taxes increase?
33. Why are my neighbor’s taxes less than mine?
34. I’m building a new house. How can I estimate the taxes?
35. I don’t have any children in school, why do I have to pay school taxes?
36. My mortgage company raised my house payment because of my taxes. Why did the taxes go up so much?
37. How can I estimate my monthly tax escrow payment?
38. Do I have any delinquent taxes on my property?
39. Who owns the vacant lot next to the brown house on Main Street?
40. How can I find my property lines?
41. Where do I get a deed prepared for my property?
42. Where can I get a copy of my deed?
My tax bills are calculated based on taxable value instead of state
equalized value. What does taxable value mean to me?
Taxable value began in 1995 as part of Proposal A. Taxable values are adjusted each year by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 5% whichever is less until property title transfers. Your taxable value cannot be greater than your state equalized value. In other words, Proposal A “capped” taxable value increases by the CPI or 5%, whichever is less.
Can my taxable value increase more than the rate of inflation?
Yes if:
1. A sale and/or title transfer
occurs. In the year following a sale and/or title transfer, the
property becomes “uncapped”
making the state equalized value (SEV) and taxable value the same.
Michigan law states the actual
sale price must not be the sole basis for the new SEV for that
property.
2. New construction to a property is
added to the taxable value.
3. The value of items omitted from the
previous year(s) assessed value is added to the taxable value.
The following formula shows how new construction or omitted items are added to the taxable value.
| Formula: | Previous Taxable Value x CPI + New Construction/Omitted Item = Current Taxable Value |
| Example: | $25,673. x 2.3% ('04 CPI) = $26,263. + $5,500 = $31,763. |
If my taxes are now based on taxable value, why is there an assessed
value?
The Michigan Constitution still requires all properties to be assessed annually at 50% of market value.
When do assessments occur?
Assessments of each property are reviewed annually. The assessed values are calculated as of tax day each year, which is December 31.
How was my assessed value determined?
Assessors use a state required mass appraisal method to value properties. We estimate land values from sales data and building values from a state cost manual. Then, we analyze sales data from your neighborhood and develop factors we use to further adjust our estimates to reflect local market value.
I haven’t made any improvements to my house. Why
did my assessed value change?
Your market value can change even when there is no physical change to your property. A growing economy or increasing population can push housing values steadily upward. The Assessor does not create increases in property value. He/she recognizes changes as they occur and must adjust values accordingly.
Why is my change in assessed value different than my
neighbors?
Assessed value changes vary according to the individual characteristics of houses in relation to sales in your area. Building style, size and amenities such as porches, decks, garages and extra bathrooms affect value estimates.
My assessed value didn’t change, but my taxable value
increased. Why?
The current sales information for your neighborhood may show no value increase over last year’s value. However, the taxable value is tied to the Consumers Price Index and calculated annually causing an increase in your taxable value.
How do I know if my assessed value is reasonable?
Compare the market value of your property with sales of similar homes in your neighborhood. The sales should be on homes that are similar to yours in size, style, age and condition. The Assessor’s Office has sales information to assist you. (Market value = Assessed value X 2)
I just bought a new house, why isn’t my assessed value
one half of my sale price?
Michigan law prohibits assessors from basing values on one sale price. We are required to value your property based on the methods used to value other properties in your area. While we hope our value estimate is close to your sale price, it is an estimate and may not be the same as your recent sale.
What if I disagree with the assessed value on my
property?
After gathering the facts about your assessed value, contact the Assessor’s Office to discuss the value. If not satisfied, you may appeal to the March Board of Review and finally the Michigan Tax Tribunal. Proceeding in this order is critical for advancement to the next level. Failure to appeal to the local board of review cancels your right to appeal to the tribunal.
What is a Property Transfer Affidavit?
Changes in state law after Proposal A created the Property Transfer Affidavit, (form 2766). An affidavit must be filed whenever title of real estate or buildings on lease land is transferred. It must be filed even if you are not recording a deed. Filing with the local assessor is mandatory.
Where do I obtain and file the affidavit?
Property transfer affidavits can be obtained from closing agents such as a title office, financial institution or attorney. They can also be obtained at your local assessor’s office. The new owner must file the affidavit with the local assessor within 45 days of the transfer without penalty. Failure to file could result in a penalty of $5. per day for each day over 45 days not to exceed $200.
What is the purpose of the affidavit?
Assessors use the affidavit to make sure the property is assessed properly and receives the correct taxable value. The correct taxable value is determined by whether it is a good transfer or an exempt transfer.
What is a “transfer of ownership”?
State law defines a “transfer of ownership” as “the conveyance of title to or present interest in property, including the beneficial use of the property.” Transfers include deeds, land contracts and variety of transactions outlined on the back of the affidavit form.
What happens after ownership of a property is
transferred?
The Michigan Constitution limits how much a property’s taxable value can increase while owned by the same person. Once the property is transferred, the assessor must change the taxable value to 50% of the property’s usual selling price. In other words, in the year following the sale or transfer the taxable value and state equalized value (SEV) are the same. This is called uncapping.
Are some types of transfers exempt from adjustment
(uncapping)?
YES. Some of the exempt transactions include changes in ownership solely to exclude or include a spouse, transferring a property into a trust where the sole beneficiary is the creator of the trust or that person’s spouse, redemption from a tax sale, or transfer to effect a foreclosure. Some of the exempt transactions are listed on the affidavit form and full descriptions are in MCL Section 211.27a(7)(a-m).
What is the Homestead or Homeowners Principal Residence
Exemption?
Principal Residences are properties that serve as your principal home. State law grants a principal residence exemption from local school operating taxes for a principal residence and qualified agricultural properties. Currently this is a reduction of up to 18 mills of school tax.
How do I qualify for the exemption?
To qualify you must own the property and occupy it as your legal, primary residence. The deadline to qualify for any given year is May 1 of that year. Buyers who close and/or occupy the residence after that date are eligible for exemption in the following year.
What form do I use?
If this is your first principal residence exemption application or you are buying a property that was not previously a principal residence, you can use the affidavit for Homeowners Principal Residence Exemption (2368).
What if I stop using my home as my primary residence?
If you stop using your exempt property as your principal residence but are not selling it, you are required to file a Request to Rescind Homeowners Principal Residence Exemption (2602). This form must be filed within 90 days of the change. The exemption remains in effect through December 31 of that year.
What if I sell my house and buy a new one?
You need to file form (2602) Request to Rescind Homeowners Principal Residence on the house you sold and form (2368) Homeowners Principal Residence Exemption Affidavit for the home you just purchased and moving into. The Michigan Department of Treasury recommends the forms be completed and distributed by the closing agent who supervises real estate transactions. Principal Residence Exemption forms are also available at the Assessor’s Office.
Can I claim the house in the City of Owosso as my
principal residence and my wife claim the cottage as hers?
NO. In most cases, this attempt to receive a dual benefit can result in full taxes being levied on both properties for all previous years, due and payable immediately, a severe penalty and shock to one’s budget. Dual exemptions are only possible when each spouse lives in a separate home and they file separate income tax returns.
What if I have been eligible for a Principal Residence
Exemption, but have not received one? Will there be a refund?
The law allows the July and December Board of Review to grant Principal Residence Exemptions for the current year, plus up to three previous years. If you qualify, there will be a refund for the years eligible. The County Treasurer will send the refund within 30 days of adjournment of the board.
We move to Florida in the winter, can we still have a
Michigan Homeowners Principal Residence Exemption?
YES. However, if at some point you declare yourself a Florida resident and/or are spending more than 6 months there, then you may no longer qualify for the Michigan Exemption.
What is a Poverty Exemption?
The General Property Tax Act, 211.7u, describes the poverty exemption as; The homestead of persons who, in the judgment of the supervisor and board of review, by reason of poverty, are unable to contribute toward the public charges is eligible for exemption in whole or in part from taxation under this act.
How do I qualify for a Poverty Exemption?
To be considered for this exemption, you must have an income less than or equal to the Federal Guidelines for the Poverty Income Level. You must also satisfy the asset test as established in the City of Owosso, Poverty Policy and Guidelines.
When do I file for the Poverty Exemption?
Since the exemption is only granted for one year, you must file annually. Some of the documents required are State and Federal Income Tax Returns, Income and Expense Statements along with documents that support the statements, proof of ownership as your principal residence, Michigan driver’s license or proper identification, and any other data requested on the application that will support the claim.
When are my taxes due?
The summer taxes are billed July 1 of each year and due by August 31 without penalties. The winter taxes are billed December 1 of each year and due by February 14 without penalties. On March 1, the delinquent tax rolls are given to the County Treasurer and additional penalties are added.
What period does my taxes cover?
Although the taxing agencies on your tax bills may have different fiscal years, your bills are for the calendar year in which they are billed. Add your July and December tax bills together for your total annual taxes.
How are my taxes computed?
Taxes are computed by multiplying your taxable value times the total mills. A mill is $1.00 per thousand dollars of taxable value. An easy formula to calculate taxes is shown below:
| Formula: | Taxable Value x Mills / 1,000 = Taxes |
| Example: | 100,000 x 41.50 / 1,000 = $4,150. |
Why did my taxes increase?
Taxes can increase because:
1. The tax rate (millage rate)
increased. Periodically, voters have an opportunity to
renew or approve
increases to tax rates at
special elections. If voters approve additional millage, your
taxes will
increase.
2. Your taxable value increased.
Your taxable value may have increased because (a) it was adjusted by
the annual Consumer Price
Index, (b) it was uncapped after property ownership transferred, or
(c)
new construction or omitted
items were added.
Why are my neighbor’s taxes less than mine?
Property values are determined individually and differences in style, size, condition and amenities cause differences in taxable value. If you recently purchased your property, your taxable value may have been uncapped. Your neighbor’s taxable value may still be capped and less than yours. A lower taxable value means lower taxes.
I am building a new house. How can I estimate the taxes?
Estimate your annual taxes by multiplying 50% of the value of the new home and land times the tax rate.
| Formula: | New Home Value + Land Value x 50% = Taxable Value x Tax Rate = Taxes |
| Example: | $120,000. + $25,000. x 50% = $72,500. x .035 = $2,537.50 |
I don’t have any children in
school, why do I have to pay school taxes?
Michigan law requires everyone to support local public schools through property taxes. Eligible homeowners may be exempt from up to 18 mills of school operating taxes, but are still responsible for school debt, building funds and state education taxes.
My mortgage company raised my house payment because of
my taxes. Why did the taxes go up so much?
Typically this happens about one year after you buy a new house. Your mortgage company probably based your original tax escrow payment on the last known taxes. After you purchased the property it’s taxable value was uncapped for the next tax year. The taxes were then based on a higher value. Once this happens, your mortgage company reevaluated your escrow amounts and changed your payment to cover the actual taxes on your home. They may also increase your payment to make up any shortfalls in the previous year.
How can I estimate my monthly tax escrow payment?
One way to avoid escrow shortages is to base your tax escrow payments on estimated taxes. Use ½ of your sale price (if it is a market value sale) times the tax rate to estimate your total taxes. Divide by 12 to get a monthly amount. We can help you estimate your taxes, just call us at (989) 725-0530.
Do I have any delinquent taxes on my property?
Questions about taxes for the current year should be directed to the City Treasurer at (989) 725-0510. Questions about taxes for previous years or delinquent taxes are to be directed to the Shiawassee County Treasurer at (989) 743-2224.
Who owns the vacant lot next to the brown house on Main
Street?
When trying to locate information on vacant property, you need to come into the Assessor’s Office and let us help you locate the property on a tax map. Identifying addresses of buildings on each side of the vacant lot will be very beneficial. This way you can be sure you’re getting the correct information.
How can I find my property lines?
If you need to find your property lines, you should contact a local surveyor to perform this service. We will not make any recommendations of who to hire. We can provide your lot size and a copy of a tax map to get you started, but we cannot survey or locate stakes on your property.
Where do I get a deed prepared for my property?
Contact an attorney or a title insurance company for a new deed. If you are familiar with property transactions and feel comfortable preparing legal documents by yourself, deed forms are available at most office supply stores.
Where can I get a copy of my deed?
Copies of recorded deeds and land contracts can be obtained from the Shiawassee County Register of Deeds Office, 208 N. Shiawassee Street, Corunna, MI, 48817. (989) 743-2216.
General City / Historical Commission
1. How do I reserve a pavilion at the park?
2. May I rent Curwood Castle or the Amos Gould House for a wedding or other event?
3. Are apartments rented at the Gould House?
4. What is the admission to the Curwood Castle or Gould House and what hours are these buildings open?
5. When are dog licenses available?
How do I reserve a pavilion at the park?
Pavilion rental is available for Harmon Patridge, also known as Green Meadows, and Bentley Parks. Reservations are accepted after January 1 of each year, for that year, by application with payment of a security deposit at the City of Owosso Information Desk. Please call (989) 725-0599 for more information.
May I rent Curwood Castle or the Amos Gould House for a
wedding or other event?
The Curwood Castle and Gould House main floors are available for rent on an hourly basis. Both buildings have capacity limits. The grounds around the Castle may also be rented. Affiliated businesses may be secured to conduct teas or historic or medieval weddings. Contact (989) 725-0599 for more details or reservations.
Are apartments rented at the Gould House?
The Amos Gould House, corner of Washington and Oliver Streets, has two one-bedroom furnished apartments including all utilities available for rent from the Owosso Historical Commission. These are rented on a monthly basis with no long-term lease required. Corporations or individuals wishing to secure housing for a month or more have found this solution ideal. Longer-term rentals are accepted as well. Please call (989) 725-0599 for availability.
What is the admission to the Curwood Castle or Gould
House and what hours are these buildings open?
Admission donations of $2. per adult and $1. for children under 12 are requested. The Castle is open Tuesday through Sunday, except holidays, from 1:00pm - 5:00pm. The Castle is closed during the month of January. The Gould House is normally open Sundays from 1:00pm - 5:00pm, June through September. Call to confirm when the Gould House will be open. Groups may be scheduled outside of these hours for tours. Contact (989) 725-0599.
When are dog licenses available?
Dog licenses are sold for Shiawassee County from December through February each year at the City Treasurer’s Office Information Desk. They are also available from county veterinarians during this time. Proof of rabies vaccination and neutering/spaying, if applicable, is required. Dog licenses are available during the rest of the year at the Shiawassee County Treasurer’s Office. They may be contacted at (989) 743-2224 for details.
1. How do I get a copy of the Owosso City Code or Ordinances?
2. Where is the Secretary of State's Office?
3. Where can I register deeds?
4. Where do I get a birth certificate, death certificate or marriage license?
5. How do I get a license to open a business, liquor license or operate a home business?
6. Where do I pay my parking tickets?
7. Where do I pay my ambulance bills?
8. Where do I get a dog license?
How do I get a copy of the Owosso City Code or Ordinances?
Contact the City Clerk’s office at 725-0500 or on the Internet at www.ci.owosso.mi.us.
Where is the Secretary of State's Office?
Go east on Main Street/M-21 starting at the Water and Main Street light (streetlight #1) for six (6) lights and turn left into the mall. After turning, the Secretary of State’s office is on your left at the back of the mall area.
At the Shiawassee County Register of Deeds office in the old courthouse in Corunna.
Where do I get a birth certificate, death certificate or marriage license?
All vital records are maintained by the Shiawassee County Clerk at 208 North Shiawassee Street, Corunna, MI 48817. You may contact the County Clerk’s office by phoning (989) 743-2279 or send an email to clerk@shiawassee.net.
How do I get a license to open a business, liquor license or operate a home business?
To open a business, you will first need a DBA (Doing Business As) license. That is obtained from the Shiawassee County Clerk’s Office in the old courthouse in Corunna.
To apply for a liquor license, you need to contact the Liquor Control Commission at the Michigan Department of Consumer & Industry Services at (517) 322-1345.
For operation of a home business, please refer to Section 38-394 of the Owosso City Code of Ordinances.
Where do I pay my parking tickets?
At the Public Safety building across the parking lot from City Hall.
Where do I pay my ambulance bills?
At the Public Safety building across the parking lot from City Hall.
At the Owosso City Treasurer's Office during December, January and February. All year from your veterinarian or from the Shiawassee County Treasurer’s Office at the old courthouse in Corunna.
Treasurer, Property Taxes & Special Assessments
1. What is the difference between real and personal property taxes?
3. How is my tax rate determined?
4. What is the difference between assessed value and taxable value?
5. What is a principal residence exemption and how do I know if I have one?
6. How can I receive a homestead credit or have my property taxes reduced?
7. How can I receive a summer tax deferment?
8. I am a business owner, are there any tax abatements available?
9. When can I expect to receive a tax bill and when is it due?
10. I didn’t receive a tax bill, what should I do?
11. My bill has someone else’s name on it; what should I do?
12. How do I change the mailing address for my tax billing?
13. Where can I pay my taxes and what payment options are available?
14. What if I can’t pay the tax bill when it is due?
15. What are the collection fees for late payment of taxes?
17. What is a special assessment?
18. How is a special assessment placed on my property?
19. Do I have to pay off a special assessment when property is sold?
20. I am a senior citizen or permanently disabled individual; are special assessment deferments available?
21. When are special assessments billed and when are they due?
22. What happens if I don’t pay my special assessment?
What is the difference between real and personal
property taxes?
Real property generally is interpreted to include land plus the buildings and fixtures permanently attached to it.
Personal property generally is interpreted to be that not permanently affixed to land: e.g., equipment, furniture, tools, computers. In Michigan, only businesses pay the personal property tax. If you had business personal property in the city limits of Owosso on December 31 (Tax Day), you are responsible for summer and winter taxes for the following year, even if your business closed during the year.
How is property assessed?
Real property assessments are based on market values and are assessed yearly by the Assessor’s Department. Assessment notices are mailed to taxpayers of record in February of each year. An important part of assessing property is the appeal process. Real property assessments can be appealed at the March Board of Review.
Personal property assessments originate from a filing of a statement by the taxpayer. If a personal property statement is not furnished the assessor, he/she is authorized to assess such amount of personal property as deemed reasonable and just. The business property owner is required by law to report the value of property owned on a personal property statement form provided by the local assessor. Assessment notices are mailed to business personal property owners in February of each year. Personal property assessments can also be appealed at the March Board of Review.
For more information on property assessments contact the Owosso City Assessor’s Office – (989) 725-0530.
How is my tax rate determined?
In the summer tax cycle, council approves the tax levy of the City and the State Education Tax levy is authorized by the State of Michigan. The Shiawassee Board of Commissioners approves the County Tax Rate. The City of Owosso utilizes its tax collections for the operating fiscal year that commences July 1st of the tax year being billed and continues through June 30 of the succeeding year. The State Education Taxes collected are applied to the State of Michigan operating fiscal year from October 1 through September 30 of the next year. The County tax collected provides monies for the operating fiscal year that commences January 1 of the current year and continues through December 31 of the same year.
Winter tax bills, levied December 1, have the balance of the County levy. Millages are also approved by the Shiawassee District Library Board for a fiscal year December 1 to November 30; and the Owosso Public Schools for school operating and voted levies for use during the fiscal year July 1 to June 30.
What is the difference between assessed value and
taxable value?
Taxable value (TV) is the value used to compute your tax bill and applies to real property only. “TV” is determined yearly as the LESSER of assessed value (market based as determined by assessor) and capped value. Capped value is the prior year’s taxable value, less taxable value of losses, “capped” by an increase of the lesser of 5% or the rate of inflation, plus assessed value of additions. Taxable value becomes uncapped when property is sold or transferred.
What is a principal residence exemption and how do I
know if I have one?
Principal residence exemption entitles the owner of real property an exemption from the 18* mills of school operating tax for the percentage of taxable value used as a primary residence. The homestead exemption must be claimed on form 2368 Homeowners Principal Residence Exemption and filed with the City Assessor’s Office. The principal residence exemption for your property will be included on your assessment notice expressed as a percentage. The principal residence exemption percentage will also be displayed on your summer and winter tax bill. A principal residence exemption of 100% means your property is exempted from 100% of school operating taxes. Voted school bonded debt millages are NOT exempted.
Principal residence exemption forms are available from the City Assessor’s Office or on line from the Department of Treasury under local government, property tax forms @ www.michigan.gov/treasury.
For questions on your principal residence exemption, please contact the City Treasurer’s Office at(989) 725-0515 or City Assessor’s Office at (989) 725-0530.
*or less subject to Headlee Amendment roll back
How can I receive a homestead credit or have my
property taxes reduced?
The credits available do not originate from the City. The State of Michigan has a homestead property tax credit that can be calculated annually as part of the state income tax filing. In addition a separate calculation is available for senior citizens for their homestead property taxes. More information on these credits can be obtained at the web side www.treas.state.mi.us or by calling 1(800) 482-7000. Information regarding principal residence exemptions and poverty exemptions are available from the City Assessor’s Office (989) 725-0530.
How can I receive a summer tax deferment?
Summer taxes may be deferred until February 14 if your total household income is less than $40,000 and you meet one of the following requirements:
- Senior Citizen, age 62 by December 1 of a given year
- Paraplegic, quadriplegic
- Eligible service person, veteran, widow or widower
- Blind person
- Totally and permanently disabled
Forms must be filed by September 15 in the Treasurer’s Office,
phone (989) 725-0599, or may be accessed @
www.michigan.gov/treasury , local government, forms, property tax
forms Form 471 Application for Deferment of Summer Taxes.
I am a business owner, are there any tax abatements
available?
Owners of industrial property may be eligible for an Industrial Facilities Tax Abatement. There are two types of IFT’s, new and replacement. New projects are taxed at ½ the normal rate while replacement projects are taxed at the full rate, but the taxable value is frozen. Abatements are also available for Obsolete Property Rehabilitation, Brownfield Rehabilitation and NEW personal property tax. For more information on these issues, please contact the Planning Director at (989) 725-0540.
When can I expect to receive a tax bill and when is it
due?
The summer tax bills are mailed by July 1 and are due without late collection fee by August 31, unless that date falls on a weekend in which case the due date is the next business day. The winter tax bills are mailed by December 1 and are due the following February 14, unless that date falls on a weekend in which case the due date is the next business day. The due date will always be clearly indicated on your tax bill. Payments must be received by the due date or late collection fees will be assessed. Postmarks will not be accepted as the date of payment.
I didn’t receive a tax bill, what should I do?
Call our office at (989) 725-0515. Please note, it is the taxpayers responsibility to pay the taxes by the due date regardless of whether a bill was received or not.
My bill has someone else’s name on it, what should I
do?
First make sure it is your bill, i.e., check the permanent parcel number and/or legal description. If it is your bill, most likely there has been a recent ownership change and the taxpayer information hasn’t been updated. If this is the case, you may pay on the bill you received. Again, please note it is the taxpayer’s responsibility to pay the taxes by the due date.
How do I change the mailing address for my tax billing?
The City Assessor maintains mailing addresses. Please call city hall at (989) 725-0530 to request any mailing address changes.
Where can I pay my taxes and what payment options are
available?
- At our office – City Hall is located at 301 W. Main Street, Owosso, MI 48867. Our office hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.
- Mail – Please send the entire bill if you would like to have a stamped receipt returned. DO NOT SEND CASH.
- Drop Box – There is a drop box conveniently located next to the drive between the City Hall and Public Safety Buildings. DO NOT PLACE CASH IN THE DROP BOX.
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR) – Tax bills can be paid by phone: Dial 1-800-2PAYTAX (1-800-272-9829). Select Option 3, enter Jurisdiction Code: 7139, and follow the messages, inputting data where necessary. There is a convenience fee for using this service.
- Online – Tax bills can be paid using credit/debit or electronic check. There is a convenience fee for using this service. Pay Online Now!
What if I can’t pay the tax bill when it is due?
Installment payments are permitted. Taxpayers may, at any time after the taxes are levied and prior to March 1 of the next succeeding year, pay City and State Education Taxes in installments plus late fees due on the portion so paid to the date of payment.
What are the collection fees for late payment of taxes?
Summer taxes: 2% late fee on unpaid principal on September 1, with 1% added each additional month until 4% total has been added. 3% additional will be added from February 15 until March 1. Unpaid real property taxes are turned over the Shiawassee County Treasurer as of March 1 of the succeeding year. Contact the Shiawassee County Treasurer at (989) 743-2224 for payment information on taxes turned over delinquent.
Winter taxes: 3% late collection fee is collected after the due date and before March 1. Unpaid real property taxes are turned over to the Shiawassee County Treasurer as of March 1 following the due date. Contact the Shiawassee County Treasurer at (989) 743-2224 for payment information on taxes turned over delinquent. Business personal property taxes remain payable at the City Treasurer’s Office.
The taxable value or principal residence exemption for
my property is being corrected at the Board of Review; should I wait
for a corrected tax bill before paying?
No. The bill you received is due and payable by the due date and in the amount stated on the bill. Partial payments made in anticipation of an assessment correction are “at your own risk”; i.e., any residual balance due after corrections will bear late collection fees if past due. The City Board of Review meets in July and December to correct errors to the tax roll for both the current and prior year only.
If a change to your account by the Board of Review is necessary, it will be processed by the Treasurer’s Office within ten days of receipt of the final report of adjustments from the Board. Until we receive a valid change to an account, the original billing remains as stated. Our office cannot adjust any accounts prior to receiving final authorization from the Board of Review.
If the change requires a refund, due to the over-payment of tax, it
will generally be processed within thirty days of the adjustment to
your account.
What is a special assessment?
A special assessment is confined to local impositions upon property for the payment of the cost of public improvements in its immediate vicinity and levied with reference to special benefits to the property assessed.
How is a special assessment placed on my property?
The Owosso City Council establishes projects after a hearing of necessity. Each affected property owner is notified and given an opportunity to provide input at a public hearing before a project is approved.
Do I have to pay off a special assessment when property
is sold?
The City of Owosso allows assessments to be assumed by a new owner. Some lenders, however, require payoffs prior to issuing a mortgage.
I am a senior citizen or permanently disabled
individual; are special assessment deferments available?
The State of Michigan provides a deferment for special assessments for seniors or totally or permanently disabled citizens who meet certain guidelines. The State will pay the assessment, but place a LIEN on the property which must be paid with interest at the time of the sale of the property or close of the estate. Form 2748 may be accessed @ www.michigan.gov/treasury, local government, forms, property tax forms, Form 2748 Senior Citizen or Totally or Permanently Disabled Person Affidavit Requesting Special Assessment Deferment.
When are special assessments billed and when are they
due?
Special assessments are mailed to taxpayers on September 1 of each year and are due by December 1. Interest accrues from September 1 of each year. Payoff amounts are available at any time of the year by calling the Treasurer’s Office at (989) 725-0515.
What happens if I don’t pay my special assessment?
After the December 1 due date, the current installment is charged a late fee of 1% per month. If unpaid by the following March 1, the current installment is sent to the County Treasurer’s office with the delinquent tax roll. For late payment before March 1, call the City Treasurer’s Office for payoff required at (989) 725-0515. When delinquent, call the Shiawassee County Treasurer for payoff at (989) 743-2224.
Water & Sewer
1. Who pays a security deposit for water service?
2. Who pays utility bills and how are they calculated?
3. How do I set up water service in my name?
4. When are utility bills mailed and when are they due?
5. Where can I pay my water bill and what payment options are available?
6. How do I request a final water bill?
7. What things can I check if I receive a high water bill?
8. If I receive a disconnection notice for non-payment, may I have an extension?
9. What happens to uncollected water/sewer accounts?
10. Where does the City water come from?
11. How is the City water treated?
12. Can I get my water tested?
Who pays a security deposit for water service?
Water security deposits are charged to offset liability for utility charges at an address. Any person/business requesting water service that is not the listed taxpayer must pay a water security deposit. All accounts out of city limits are required to provide a deposit. Out of city homeowners may request a refund of their deposit if they have a two-year record of timely payments and proof of ownership of the property. Accounts on the non-pay disconnection list are required to provide a deposit if one is not one file. Residential deposits are currently $75. Meters larger than the residential 5/8’ size require a deposit based upon meter size.
Who pays utility bills and how are they calculated?
All users of the city’s water and sewer utility systems pay utility user fees and charges as adopted by City Council. The fees and charges are designed to allow the user fees to support the operations, maintenance, administration and capital of the city’s utilities. Current rates are as follows:
- Water – In town $1.20 per 750 gallons
- Water – Out of city $2.40 per 750 gallons
- Water – Demand fee based on meter size*
- Sewer – In town $1.70 per 750 gallons
- Sewer – Demand fee based on water meter size*
*Please contact the Water Department for further information (989) 725-0520.
How do I set up water service in my name?
Persons listed as taxpayers for properties in city limits may call the billing department at 989-725-0520. Non-taxpayers for the address or those outside of the city limits are required to provide a security deposit and must stop at City Hall during business hours to set up the account.
When are utility bills mailed and when are they due?
Each utility customer receives his or her bill(s) quarterly. The bills are mailed the first week of the January, April, July and September and are due around the 20th of that month. A penalty of 10% can be assessed for late payments.
Where can I pay my water bill and what payment options are
available?
- At our office – City Hall is located at 301 W. Main Street, Owosso MI 48867. Our office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Mail – Please include the water bill stub and note the amount being paid on the stub if different from the amount due. DO NOT SEND CASH.
- Drop Box – There is a drop box conveniently located near the drive between the City Hall and Public Safety Buildings – DO NOT PLACE CASH IN THE DROP BOX.
-
Automatic Bill
Pay –
you may sign up to have the bill amount automatically debited from
your bank account. This service is free.
Utility Billing Electronic Payment Form - Interactive Voice Response (IVR) – Tax bills can be paid by phone: Dial 1-800-2PAYTAX (1-800-272-9829). Select Option 3, enter Jurisdiction Code: 7139, and follow the messages, inputting data where necessary. There is a convenience fee for using this service.
- Online – Tax bills can be paid using credit/debit or electronic check. There is a convenience fee for using this service. Pay Online Now!
Partial payments are accepted unless service has reached the non-payment disconnection list.
How do I request a final water bill?
Please call the Water Department at (989) 725-0520 to request a final bill. Please provide the date service should be discontinued in your name and a forwarding address. Final bills are prepared and mailed at the end of the month in which service is discontinued. If applicable, a refund check will be forwarded to you approximately two weeks after the final billing is prepared.
What things can I check if I receive a high water bill?
- Do you have a dripping faucet?
- Has a garden hose been left running?
- Have you checked the basement or crawl space for any leaks?
- Have you filled or added water to your swimming pool? Have you watered your lawn or garden?
- Is the hot water heater leaking? Is it near a floor drain so that the water drains away and does not leave a noticeable puddle?
- Do you have a humidifier on your furnace that needs adjusting?
- Is the toilet leaking or running for long periods of time? A toilet can leak without making a sound. To test for a silent leak, put food coloring in the tank. Let it set undisturbed for about 20 to 30 minutes. If it is leaking the colored water will appear in the bowl.
- Have you checked the water softener? It could have a sticky valve that is allowing water to run continuously through it.
- If you have a pit meter (a meter in the yard and not in the house), have you checked it for leaks? Pit meters are not read in the winter months. Actual reads in the spring, often April, may show up extra usage accumulated over the winter.
- The water charged for on the current bill was used about a month ago. Did you have houseguests or any extra water-consuming activities at that time?
- Water consumption just seems to be higher during the summer months with more bathing, watering the garden and lawn, washing the car, etc.
- Have you compared the outside recorder with the inside meter?
Sometimes, they may not match and this would cause an inaccurate
reading. Please call the Water Department, 989-725-0520, if
you find this situation.
A final check for leaks is to turn off all water sources in the house, then check the meter. Wait a couple of hours without using the water, and then compare the meter with the first reading. If the meter has advanced, there is a leak.
If I receive a disconnection notice for non-payment, may I have an
extension?
The City Water Department will allow one formal extension agreement in a year’s time. It must be signed at the City Water Department desk before the due date of the disconnection notice.
What happens to uncollected water/sewer accounts?
Water/sewer charges are lienable to the address. Unpaid closed accounts will be placed on the tax bill with a ten percent surcharge if the property is located in the city limits. Uncollected out of city accounts are turned over to a collection agency.
Where does City water come from?
Six groundwater wells serve as our water supply source. Two wells (Hintz & Osburn) are located north & east of Owosso. Two wells (Local Wells #1 & #13) are located near our water treatment plant near S. Gould St. Two wells (Palmer Wells No. 2 & 3) are located south of town, off Palmer Street near Hopkins Lake. All the wells are individually tested to assure a safe source of water. The City will be working with the state and other local jurisdictions over the next several years to develop & implement a wellhead protection program to further protect our source water from future, potential sources of contamination.
How is the City water treated?
Testing drinking water can get very involved & expensive depending on what you are looking for. If you have City water, we recommend you check with us first (Utilities Director’s office 725-0555) to see if our existing monitoring data will answer your question. If not, we can assist you in getting individual water tests conducted though there may be a cost involved.
If you have an individual well and you are interested in having your water checked, we recommend you contact the Shiawassee County Environmental Health office (989) 743-2390 for advice & assistance.
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