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Property taxes are complicated and confusing.
A significant amount of the confusion comes from the fact that your most recent tax bill was determined over a year ago. By the time you get your bill, it is too late to do anything except feel frustrated, get angry, and complain. However, it doesn’t have to be this way.
The Iowa Department of Revenue lists 22 steps in the 18-month property tax cycle. To simplify, here are the most important and when you can take action:
December 1, 2023, through March 2024 – Local Gov’t Budget Creation TAKE ACTION: Contact your city council, county supervisors, and school board. Start a conversation with the local taxing authorities (schools, cities, and counties) as they create budgets and determine how much they will spend, which, in turn, makes the property tax rate and, ultimately, your tax bill.
March 2024 – Property Tax Increase Notifications Mailed Watch your mailbox for a detailed statement with an estimated amount and the taxing authority’s reasons for a proposed property tax increase. The notification will also include the date, time, and place of a hearing for taxpayers to provide comments.
Spring 2024 – Local Gov’t Budget Hearings TAKE ACTION: Make your voice heard. Print your community’s information from ITR Local and attend your local hearing. Share your story and how this property tax increase will impact you.
March 31, 2024 – The second half of property taxes made in 2022 are due.
August 2024 – Property tax statements mailed to taxpayers Property owners will receive tax statements in August. When you get your bill, TURN IT OVER to see the taxing authorities who created your bill, the amount they taxed you, and how much their budget grew from the previous year.
September 30, 2024 – The first half of property taxes made in 2023 are due.
November 5, 2024 – County Supervisor and Bonding Elections TAKE ACTION: Get out and vote! The best taxpayer protection is winning elections. (City Council and School Board elections will be on November 4, 2025)
April 2025 – New assessments mailed to property owners. Taxpayers receive their property’s assessment every two years, in odd-numbered years (2023, 2025, 2027…). Remember, local government spending determines your tax bill.Assessments are just part of the formula. It’s possible for your property’s assessment to increase and your property tax bill to stay the same or even decrease.
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