Press Release: State Treasurer Godlewski & Kenosha Treasurer Jacobson Team Up with Message to Homeowners

MADISON – State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski and Kenosha County Treasurer Teri Jacobson have an important reminder to Wisconsinites - Be sure to pay your property taxes on time to avoid unwanted interest and penalties. The two treasurers launched the Treasurers’ Homeownership Task Force in March, and this reminder comes as part of the initiative to empower taxpayers. 

“Property taxes go to support our local communities and essential services such as education, public safety, sanitation, and mental health,” said State Treasurer Godlewski. “When homeowners pay their property taxes on time, they avoid unwanted interest and penalty, avoid foreclosure, and make a key investment to the community they call home.” 

• Tax bills should be received by December 21, and payment is due on January 31, 2021. 

• If you have not received your tax bill by December 21, contact your local treasurer to get a copy of your bill and make sure they have the correct mailing address. 

• Review your bill when it arrives and pay either the full amount or first installment to your city, village, or town treasurer to avoid added interest to late payments. 

“In order to avoid additional interest and penalty, and losing the option to pay in installments, it is essential that taxpayers pay at least the full amount of their first installment by Jan. 31, 2021, to their municipal treasurer,” Jacobson said. “If you are unable to pay the full amount, you should pay as much as you are able by Jan. 31, 2021, to reduce the amount you will be charged in interest and penalty,” 

Residents should also check to make sure they are receiving the lottery credit when reviewing their property tax bill. The credit is available to individuals who are paying property tax on their primary residence. 

For questions regarding your property tax bill, reach out to your local treasurer. Contact information for your county treasurer can be found here. You can also find more information and answers to frequently asked questions here.

Property Tax Video with State Treasurer Godlewski & County Treasurer Jacobson

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