Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I pay my taxes?

You can pay your taxes by these methods:

• in person at the Township offices located at 3848 Veterans Drive, Traverse City, MI 49685
• Mail your payment to the Township office at the above address
• leave your payment after business hours in the secure gray night drop box located by the Township office main door
• pay over the phone with a credit card by calling 1-800-2PAY TAX (a 3% convenience fee will apply)
• pay online with a credit card by clicking right here - pay by credit card (a 2.5% convenience fee will apply)

Can I pay my taxes with a credit card?

Yes.  Garfield Township is able to provide our taxpayers with the ability to pay taxes with a VISA, MasterCard or Discover Card.  There is a 2.5% convenience fee charged for this service.

Can I look up my property tax information online?

Yes.  Go to our computer processor website BS&A Software by following clicking the highlighted words.  You will need to click on "Sign Up" to create a user name and password that will identify you as the owner of the property.

Can I get help to pay my taxes?

If you are in need of financial assistance, there are some things that we can check to see if you might qualify for some help:

• Summer deferment - If you qualify, this option extends the due date for summer taxes from September 14th to February 14th of the next year.  Using this option makes both summer and winter taxes due at the same time (Feb.14) with no penalty or interest if paid by that date.  Contact the Treasurer's office to see if you qualify.
• Hardship exemption - if your income is below a certain level, you may qualify to have a portion of your taxes exempt.  You must contact the assessing office to see if you qualify.
• There may be other types of exemptions available. You must contact the assessing office to determine your eligibility.

What are the current millage rates?

 

2010 Annual Millage Rates: 

100% Homestead = 27.724 mills (summer = 18.7955 & winter = 8.9285)

Non-Homestead = 45.724 mills (summer = 36.7955 & winter = 8.9285)

 

2009 Annual Millage Rates: 

100% Homestead = 27.4487 mills (summer = 18.7955 & winter = 8.6532)

Non-Homestead = 45.4487 mills (summer = 36.7955 & winter = 8.6532)

 

Taxes are based upon Taxable Value.  1 mill equals $1.00 per $1,000. of taxable value.

What are personal property taxes?

There are two types of personal property taxes.

• Business personal property taxes are assessed to business owners on the assets they use to operate their business.  A business needs to report assets to the Township once a year on the annual Personal Property Statement.  These statement forms are mailed to all businesses in the township once a year in December. They must be returned to the assessing office no later than February 20th each year.  Personal property taxable value is determined from the statement. If you need help to complete your statement, one of our assessors would be happy to assist you.

Here is a helpful brochure for business owners about personal property taxes.  Operating a business in Garfield Township Brochure

 

• Mobile Home personal property taxes - If you own a mobile home that is located in Garfield Township, you may be assessed personal property taxes on any shed, porches or other outbuildings located near your mobile home.

Here is a helpful flyer for mobile home owners regarding personal property taxes.  Personal property taxes for mobile home owners flyer

What period are summer and winter taxes for?

All taxes billed are for the period of January 1 through December 31.  The taxes are collected in two portions (summer and winter) to make it easier on the taxpayer.  Different taxing authorities collect at different times. For instance, the Traverse City Area Public Schools collect their portion of tax dollars on the summer tax bill, but are not listed on the winter tax bill.  The Fire Department collects its portion of tax dollars on the winter tax bill, but are not listed on the summer tax bill.

What is "tax day"?

For the purpose of personal property taxes, "tax day" is December 31st of each year.  If you are in business on this day, then you will be assessed personal property taxes for the whole next year.  As a business owner, if you are planning to go out of business, it is best to do so before Dec. 31st. 

How do I appeal my Taxable Value?

It is the right of every property owner to appeal the assessed value of your property.  There is one time each year during the March Board of Review in which you can make your appeal, either in person or by letter.  Click here for helpful info on how to make your appeal.

How to Appeal my Property Assessment

Do I need to notify the township if my business is closing?

Yes.  If your business will be closing, you must notify the township so that we can record a closing date for your business.  This will allow us to remove your business from future tax rolls.

Do I need a permit to hold an auction in Garfield Township?

Yes.  You must apply for an auction permit with the Township Clerk at least 10 days prior to the date of the auction.  There is a $20 permit fee.  Click here to print an auction application