Property Tax Deferment

Property Tax Deferments

Summer Deferments – The Michigan Department of Treasury has created an FAQ regarding Summer Tax Deferment.  Senior Citizens, who meet legal qualifications, can defer payment of summer taxes until the winter bills are due in February by filing the deferment form with the tax department before September 15. To qualify, seniors must 1) own and occupy their home; 2) be over 62 years of age;  and 3) be a paraplegic, a quadriplegic, an eligible serviceperson, an eligible veteran, an eligible widow or widower, or blind or permanently disabled with annual income under $40,000. 

Winter Deferments – Senior Citizens must file a Homestead Property Tax Credit form with the State of Michigan (as part of the Michigan 1040 form) and qualify for a refund. A copy of the completed form must be brought to the tax office before February 15. After the last day of February, taxes can no longer be paid at City Hall but must be paid to the Berrien County Treasurer's Office at 701 Main Street, St. Joseph.

Special Assessments exist on various parcels within the city. Please contact the Finance Office for payoff details if you are aware of a special assessment on your property.