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1. Why did my taxes go up?

The tax bill is prepared from information provided by the County Auditor's office. The two things that can change the amount due are a difference in the property valuation or tax rate. Since 2008 was a state-mandated general reappraisal year for real property, the tax value has changed on some real property. Also, any levies that passed in your area would result in a change in your tax amount. If you have any questions about the valuation or tax levies, you will need to contact the Ashtabula County Auditor's office at 440-576-1437.

2. What is the tax rate for my taxing district?

You can view a current chart of tax rates. Tax rates sheets are also available in the Treasurer's and Auditor's offices.

3. What should I do if I didn't receive a tax bill?

Please contact our office at 440-576-3727 to make sure we have your correct mailing address on record, or to see if we have received your bill back in the returned mail. We are not able to reprint your tax duplicate, but you can print a copy of your current-year bill online by using the Auditor's Tax Search function. Another option is to send in a check for the correct amount with the parcel number(s) written in the memo portion of your check and a self-addressed stamped envelope for a receipt. To find out the tax amount due and the parcel number, please go to the Auditor's Property Search page or contact our office. Auditor's Property Search

4. I received my tax bill but it was supposed to go to my bank what should I do? Or visa versa.

By law, we must receive a written and signed request for a change of address from the party who was to receive the bill. Please contact your bank or mortgage company to discuss who is going to pay the tax bill before it becomes delinquent. If the bill was delivered to the bank or mortgage company and should be sent to you, please send written notice to the Treasurer’s Office of the proper mailing address and indicate the parcel numbers of all property affected. If the bank or mortgage company should receive the bill, please have the bank or mortgage company send in a written request for the bill.

5. Are postmark dates acceptable? When are taxes considered late?

Postal regulations state that the postmark of the due date is to be considered current as long as it is a US Postal Service post mark and good and valid payment is included. Post marks from private postal meters are not accepted. Postdated payments are not accepted.

6. Can I get a receipt for my paid taxes?

Your cancelled check will act as a receipt for tax payments. However, a receipt may be obtained by mailing in both the top and bottom portions of your tax bill and a self-addressed stamped envelope with your payment.

7. How much is penalty?

Penalty is 10% of the current taxes due according to Ohio Revised Code 323.17. Penalty is reduced to 5% for the first ten days from the tax due date. If current taxes become a full year delinquent, penalty is compounded. Interest is added on any prior delinquency July 1st. Interest will be added on December 1st for any unpaid taxes.

8. I didn't receive my tax bill. Can penalties be waived?

No. Failure to receive a bill does not excuse you from paying penalty. Taxes are mailed out in December and May. If you do not receive your bill by the end of January or the middle of June, it is your responsibility to contact our office. Also, a notice will appear in the local paper prior to the due date.

9. What are the consequences of not paying my taxes?

Taxes are a lien on your property and could inhibit your attempt to sell your property. 60 days after taxes are certified delinquent, a foreclosure action may be filed by the Treasurer through the Prosecutor's office which may result in a Sheriff's sale of your property. Tax liens could be sold to a third party which would increase the amount you owe due to additional interest, fees and costs.

10. Do you accept credit cards?

Yes, but not at the Treasurer’s Office. For instructions on how to pay by credit card, please view pay taxes. At the Treasurer’s Office, we can accept personal checks, money orders, or cash (please do not send cash in the mail). Checks should be made out to Dawn M. Cragon, Ashtabula County Treasurer. Please make sure you have signed your checks. Just a reminder: Postdating your check is against the law.