Example of Lehigh County Property Tax Calculation
Lehigh County utilizes a formula to calculate property tax that takes into account the assessed value of the property and the millage rate. The assessed value is determined by the County Assessment Office, which appraises the property and assigns a value based on its market value.
Once the assessed value is determined, the County applies the millage rate to calculate the property tax. The millage rate is a percentage of the assessed value that is used to determine the amount of taxes owed on the property.
For example, if the assessed value of a property in Lehigh County is $100,000 and the millage rate is 3%, the property tax would be calculated as follows:
$100,000 (assessed value) x 0.03 (millage rate) = $3,000 (property tax)
It is important to note that the millage rate can vary from year to year and is set by the County Commissioners based on the County's budget and funding needs.
Overall, the calculation of Lehigh County property tax is a straightforward formula that takes into account the assessed value of the property and the millage rate.
If you want appeal your property tax assessment - contact your local tax assessor.
Lehigh County Property Tax Rates
Lehigh County Property Tax Rates:
| Tax | Rate per $100 of Assessed Value |
|---|---|
| County General Fund | $4.41 |
| Municipal/Township | Varies |
| School District | Varies |
Note: Municipal/township tax rates vary depending on the specific municipality or township within Lehigh County. School district tax rates also vary by school district. For more information on specific tax rates, it is recommended to contact the appropriate municipal/township or school district office.
Who sets property tax rates in Lehigh County ?
Who sets property tax rates in Lehigh County?
The Lehigh County Board of Commissioners is responsible for determining the annual property tax rate in Lehigh County. They typically meet in December to set the rate for the following year.
When are property tax rates set in Lehigh County?
The Lehigh County Board of Commissioners sets the property tax rates on an annual basis, typically in December for the following year. The tax rate is then applied to the assessed value of each property in the county to determine the amount of property taxes owed by the property owner.
| Agency | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Lehigh County Board of Commissioners | Determines annual property tax rates |
| Property owners | Pay property taxes based on assessed value of their property |
It is important for property owners to understand the property tax system in Lehigh County and to stay informed about any changes to the tax rate that may affect them financially.
Homestead exemptions in Lehigh County ?
In Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, there are several Homestead exemptions and deductions that residents may be eligible for. To help you navigate these options, we've created a table outlining each exemption and its corresponding eligibility requirements, amount, and notes.
| Exemption | Eligibility | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestead/Farmstead Exclusion | Property owner | Up to $45,000 | Must be primary residence or farmstead |
| Senior Citizen Tax Freeze | Homeowner, 65 or older | Property taxes remain the same | Income and residency restrictions apply |
| Disabled Veterans Real Estate Tax Exemption | Honorably discharged veterans with a disability | Up to 100% exemption | Based on disability percentage |
| Active Duty Military Exemption | Active duty military personnel | Up to $5,000 | Must be primary residence |
| Tax Assistance Program | Low-income homeowners | Varies | Based on income and family size |
It's important to note that these exemptions and deductions are specific to Lehigh County and may not apply to other counties in Pennsylvania. Additionally, eligibility requirements and amounts may be subject to change. It's always a good idea to confirm the most up-to-date information with your local tax office.
Overall, if you're a homeowner in Lehigh County, be sure to explore these Homestead exemptions and deductions to see if you may be eligible for any tax savings.
When is Lehigh County Property Tax due ?
Lehigh County Property Tax is typically due on March 31st of each year. Property owners can make payments using several methods, including:
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Online: Property owners can pay their property tax bills online using the county's e-Check system. This system allows property owners to securely pay their bills using their checking account information.
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By mail: Property owners can also mail their property tax payments to the Lehigh County Tax Claim Bureau. Payments must be postmarked by the due date in order to be considered on time.
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In person: Property owners can make their property tax payments in person at the Lehigh County Tax Claim Bureau. The bureau is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and is located at 17 South 7th Street in Allentown, PA.
It's important to note that if property owners fail to pay their property tax bills on time, they may be subject to penalties and interest charges. Additionally, if a property owner fails to pay their property taxes for several years, their property may be sold at a tax sale in order to satisfy the outstanding debt.
If you have more questions - contact your local tax collector.
How is Lehigh County Property Tax penalty calculated ?
Lehigh County property tax penalty is calculated based on a formula that takes into account the amount of the unpaid taxes, the length of time the taxes have been delinquent, and the applicable interest rate. Here is an example to help explain the calculation:
- A property owner in Lehigh County fails to pay their property taxes of $10,000 due on January 1st.
- The tax collector adds a penalty of 10% to the unpaid taxes on March 1st, which brings the amount owed to $11,000.
- After 6 months of non-payment, a further penalty of 5% is added, bringing the total amount owed to $11,550.
- Interest is also applied at a rate of 1% per month, beginning on March 1st. By September 1st, there are 7 months of unpaid interest, which brings the total amount owed to $11,922.
To summarize, the Lehigh County property tax penalty is calculated as follows:
| Time Elapsed | Penalty | Interest | Total Penalty & Interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 months | 10% | 1% per month | Penalty + Interest |
| 3 to 6 months | 5% | 1% per month | Penalty + Interest |
| Over 6 months | 10% | 1% per month | Penalty + Interest |
Overall, it's important for property owners in Lehigh County to pay their property taxes on time to avoid penalties and interest charges. If you are struggling to pay your taxes, it may be worth reaching out to the tax collector's office to discuss payment options or a possible payment plan.
We recommend contacting the Lehigh County Tax Office or a local tax professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.