Two things are certain in the midst of the ongoing public health emergency: Hoosiers must avoid nonessential travel and pay their property taxes.
While tax bills are still due on May 11, the state of Indiana has given all property taxpayers a 60-day grace period in which county treasurer’s offices are required to waive late fees.
Johnson County Treasurer Michele Ann Graves asks all taxpayers to pay their taxes on time if they are able to so the county government can continue operations uninterrupted. It is vital, she said. Public services such as the health department and public safety agencies rely on tax dollars to operate, she said.
The treasurer’s office mailed tax bills on Thursday, with additional information about how to pay taxes online, by mail, by phone or at local bank drive-thrus on the back of each bill.
For those who are used to paying in person, Graves offered reassurance.
“These options were previously available and over time have proved to be reliable,” Graves said. “The treasurer’s staff is well trained and familiar with these payment options.”
Taxpayers who want a receipt can request one with any of the payment methods, she said. For mail-in or drop box payments, the office can mail a receipt if a stamped and self-addressed envelope is included with the payment, she said.
Taxpayers may still pay extra toward their fall taxes with any of the payment options aside from paying at a local bank.
After the 60-day grace period, late penalties will begin to accrue. Bills paid within 30 days of the grace period will have a 5% penalty fee added to their bill. Properties with a previous delinquency and all taxes paid more than 30 days after the grace period ends will have a 10% penalty fee added, Graves said.
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Here are the ways to pay tax bills with county buildings closed:
Checks may be mailed to the Treasurer’s Office at 86 W. Court Street, Franklin.
Cash or checks payments can be placed in the drop box on the east side of the Court Street county annex.
Credit card and electronic check payments can be made online or by phone. There are service fees for paying by phone or online if using debit or credit card, but paying by electronic check is free.
To pay online visit co.johnson.in.us and click the big blue button that reads “To Pay Property Taxes” to be redirected to the payment portal.
To pay by phone call 317-346-4330.
Any form of payment can be accepted via the drive-thru at Johnson County locations of First Financial Bank, First Merchants Bank, First National Bank, Horizon Bank and Mutual Savings Bank. Taxpayers must bring their tax bill to the bank to complete their payment.
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