Who sets property tax rates in Cheatham County ?
In Cheatham County, property tax rates are set by the County Commission. This typically occurs during budget season, which is usually in the late spring or early summer. The County Commission takes into consideration various factors, such as the needs of the county, the amount of revenue required, and the current economic climate when setting the property tax rate. It's important to note that property owners in Cheatham County pay both state and local property taxes. The state property tax rate is set by the Tennessee General Assembly, while the local property tax rate is set by the County Commission.
Cheatham County Property Tax Rates
The table below lists the current property tax rates for Cheatham County, calculated as the rate per $100 of assessed value:
| Tax | Rate per $100 of Assessed Value |
|---|---|
| County | $2.56 |
| City | $1.30 - $1.85 (depending on location) |
| School | $2.34 |
| Highway | $0.20 |
| Ambulance | $0.10 |
| General Fund | $0.25 |
It is important to note that these rates are subject to change, and property owners should consult with a professional tax advisor for the most up-to-date information and guidance on their specific situation.
Example of Cheatham County Property Tax Calculation
Cheatham County calculates property tax based on the assessed value of the property. The assessed value is determined by the county assessor who evaluates the property's market value, location, and physical attributes.
Once the assessed value is determined, the tax rate is applied to that value. In Cheatham County, the tax rate is $2.50 per $100 of assessed value. For example, if a property is assessed at $100,000, the property tax would be $2,500 per year.
It's important to note that the assessed value is not the same as the market value of the property. The market value is the amount of money a buyer would be willing to pay for the property. The assessed value is used solely for the purpose of determining property taxes.
In Cheatham County, property taxes are due on October 1st of each year. If the taxes are not paid by March 1st of the following year, they become delinquent and penalties and interest may be added to the amount owed.
If you want appeal your property tax assessment - contact your local tax assessor.
When is Cheatham County Property Tax due ?
Cheatham County Property Tax is typically due on February 28th of each year. However, if the 28th falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date will be the next business day. It is important to note that failure to pay on time can result in late fees and penalties.
There are several payment methods available for Cheatham County Property Tax. These include:
- Online: Taxpayers can pay their property tax online at the Cheatham County Trustee's website using a credit/debit card or e-check.
- By mail: Taxpayers can mail a check or money order to the Cheatham County Trustee's office. The address can be found on the tax bill.
- In person: Taxpayers can pay their property tax in person at the Cheatham County Trustee's office using cash, check, or credit/debit card.
It is recommended that taxpayers keep a copy of their tax bill and proof of payment for their records. If you have any questions about your property tax or payment options, you can contact the Cheatham County Trustee's office for assistance.
If you have more questions - contact your local tax collector.
Homestead exemptions in Cheatham County ?
To help Cheatham County residents understand their Homestead exemptions and deductions, the following table lists all the county-specific information regarding exemption, eligibility, amount, and notes.
| Exemption | Eligibility | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Homestead Exemption | Primary residence | Up to $25,000 | Must apply by April 5th |
| Senior Citizen Property Tax Freeze | Age 65+ and income less than $42,975 | Freeze property tax bill | Must apply by April 5th |
| Disabled Veteran Property Tax Relief | 30% or more disabled veteran | Up to $120,000 of assessed value | Apply at Cheatham County Trustee's Office |
| Greenbelt Law | Agricultural, forest, and open-space land | Reduced assessment | Must meet certain qualifications |
| Low-Income Elderly or Disabled Property Tax Relief | Age 65+ or 100% disabled, income less than $31,270 | Up to $25,000 of assessed value | Must apply by April 5th |
Note that the General Homestead Exemption is available for all Cheatham County residents who own and reside in their primary residence. To receive the Senior Citizen Property Tax Freeze or the Low-Income Elderly or Disabled Property Tax Relief, applicants must meet the specified age and income requirements and apply by April 5th. For the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Relief, applicants must be a 30% or more disabled veteran and apply at the Cheatham County Trustee's Office. Finally, the Greenbelt Law is applicable to agricultural, forest, and open-space land that meets certain qualifications.
To take advantage of these exemptions and deductions, Cheatham County residents should review the qualifications and apply as instructed. Doing so will help reduce their property tax burden and make homeownership more affordable.
How is Cheatham County Property Tax penalty calculated ?
Cheatham County Property Tax Penalty Calculation
When a property owner fails to pay property taxes on time, Cheatham County imposes a penalty on the unpaid amount. The penalty is calculated as a percentage of the unpaid taxes and accrues monthly until the taxes are paid in full.
Here is an example:
Suppose a property owner owes $2,000 in property taxes for the year and fails to pay by the due date of February 28th. The penalty for late payment is 1.5% per month, which means that the penalty for March would be calculated as follows:
$2,000 (unpaid taxes) x 1.5% (penalty rate) = $30 (penalty for March)
If the taxes remain unpaid in April, the penalty for April would be calculated as follows:
($2,000 + $30) (unpaid taxes + March penalty) x 1.5% (penalty rate) = $30.45 (penalty for April)
This process continues each month until the taxes are paid in full. It is important to note that interest also accrues on the unpaid taxes at a rate of 1% per month.
Here is a summary of the penalty calculation process in Cheatham County:
| Month | Unpaid Taxes | Penalty Rate | Penalty Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | $2,000 | 1.5% | $30 |
| April | $2,030 | 1.5% | $30.45 |
| May | $2,060.45 | 1.5% | $30.91 |
| June | $2,091.36 | 1.5% | $31.37 |
| July | $2,122.73 | 1.5% | $31.84 |
| August | $2,154.57 | 1.5% | $32.32 |
| September | $2,186.89 | 1.5% | $32.81 |
| October | $2,219.70 | 1.5% | $33.31 |
As you can see, the penalty amount increases each month, making it important to pay property taxes on time to avoid unnecessary fees.
We recommend contacting the Cheatham County Tax Office or a local tax professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.