Are there any programs to help senior citizens with their tax burden?

Yes, a Tax Deferral (delay) Program is available to senior citizens, whereby the State of Colorado pays the taxes on your residence and holds a lien on your property until it is sold, or changes are made to your qualifications. The annual percentage rate set by state statutes is 7%. An individual must be 65 or older as of January 1st of the year claimed. Application must be made by April 1. The home must be "free and clear". Contact the Treasurer's Office for more information.

What do you mean by Real and Personal Property?

Real Property is permanently fixed improvements on the land. Improvements include all structures, buildings, fixtures, fences, and water rights. Personal Property is generally a portable or moveable item such as equipment or furniture used in the production of income.

Why do I have to pay Property Taxes?

Taxes pay for local government services. Your tax money supports and provides funding for: 179 authorities, 12 school districts, 10 bond funds, 12 general funds, 1 community college, 13 water and sanitation districts, 10 towns, 17 fire districts, 1 sewer district, 108 special districts, 2 library districts, 8 tax increment financing districts, 2 park and recreation districts. Total tax collection for these districts amounted to $380,670,936. Total tax collection for county funds amounted to $124,702,135. Total property taxes billed in 2014 for the year 2013 were $504 million.

How are the taxes determined on my property?

Property taxes are the result of the assessment process and the total mill levies for the taxing authorities that provide public services to that property. The County Assessor establishes the value of all property for tax purposes. The taxing authorities use the assessed value to determine their mill levies. A mill is 1/10th of a penny or $1 for each $1,000 of assessed valuation. Information concerning the tax levy can be obtained by contacting the governing boards of the various taxing entities.

What if I am unable to pay my Property Taxes?

Ad valorem taxes are based on value only, and not the property owner's ability to pay. Property taxes become delinquent May 1 or June 15th depending on the payment options that a property owner chooses. Real Property Tax Liens are sold at the annual Tax Lien Sale in early November each year they are delinquent. You have three (3) years to redeem a tax lien before the owner of the tax lien can obtain a deed to your property.

After buying a new property, will I receive the next property tax notice?

If you bought property in the last half of the year, the former owner may receive the property tax notice. The County Assessor requires time to process your recorded deed. Please contact the Treasurer's Office if you have not received a property tax notice by the end of January. Mortgage Company Payments: The Treasurer's office mails property tax notices to the owner of record, as their name and address is listed on the Tax Roll certified by the County Assessor. Your mortgage company DOES NOT receive a copy of the property tax notice.

When I buy property, how do I know the tax status?

The Treasurer's Office issues a Certification of Taxes Due for a fee of $10.00. This provides both the buyer and seller all current taxing information. The Certification of Taxes Due notice is generally obtained by the closing agent when a sale takes place. You can also call the Treasurer's Office at 720.523.6160 for current information.

I just bought this property, so why am I being billed for last year's taxes?

Any prior years' taxes should have been handled at the time of sale. If they were not, remember that taxes levied on Real Property are a perpetual lien on the property without respect to ownership and have priority over all liens until they are paid in full. The settlement of who has tax liability rests with the buyer and seller.

Where do I make a payment?

Payments may be mailed to the County Treasurer's Office, P.O. Box 869, Brighton, CO 80601-0869. To ensure accurate posting, please include the appropriate payment coupon for each property. You may also visit our office located at 4430 South Adams County Parkway, 2nd Floor, Suite C2436, Brighton, CO 80601. Our office hours are Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Please bring your tax notice with you so we may receipt your payment at no charge. The fee for each additional receipt is $2.00.

Our Mission: To responsibly serve the Adams County community with integrity and innovation.