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1. If I don't pay my taxes, will I really lose my house and property?

Yes. Property owners who had delinquent taxes under the old law could also lose their property, but they had more time to pay and more "second chances". Under the new law, if your taxes are delinquent for 2 years, that's it. You've lost the property.

2. What is a delinquent tax?

A delinquent tax is a tax that has been forwarded to the County Treasurer for collection on March 1 of the year after it was due. For example, taxes that are billed by your City or Township Treasurer in 2004 will be turned over delinquent to the County Treasurer on March 1, 2005.

3. What happens after the property is forwarded to the County Treasurer for collection?

The County Treasurer adds a 4 percent administrative fee and interest of 1% per month. After one year, the property is forfeited to the County Treasurer. For example, the 2003 taxes that are still unpaid as of March 1, 2005 will be in forfeiture.

4. What does it mean for my property to be in forfeiture? Does that mean I lose my property?

No. Forfeiture is not foreclosure. If your property is in forfeiture, you still have the right to redeem. However, the interest and fees will be higher. When a property is forfeited, the interest rate goes from 1% per month to 1.5% per month, back to the date that taxes became delinquent. A $175 fee is also added, along with other costs allowed by law.

5. What happens after my property is foreclosed? How do I get it back?

You cannot get your property back after it has been foreclosed. Foreclosure is final. Property that has been foreclosed will be sold at Public Auction.

6. What if I can't come up with all the money right now?

Even if you can't pay your taxes all at once, you can still make partial payments. This must be paid with cash or cashier check, and must be paid in full before foreclosure.

7. Are timelines available for taxes from previous years?

Yes, view a listing of past years tax timelines.