Municipal property assessments and tax notices were recently mailed out to Lacombe County ratepayers.
Residents can expect to receive their 2024 notices in the coming weeks. If you have not received your notice by June 1, contact the assessment department at 403-782-6601.
“We encourage ratepayers to be proactive and ensure they have received their assessment and tax notices from Lacombe County,” said Michael Minchin, director of corporate services.
“It is essential to review the notice promptly to verify the information and address any concerns promptly.”
Property owners are required to pay their taxes by Aug. 31.
Penalties will be applied after this date, even if you have not received an official tax notice.
Meanwhile, the assessment and tax notice are a combined document.
- Anyone wishing to appeal their assessment has 60 days from the notice of assessment date to do so. The appeal date is indicated on the notice of assessment.
- Be aware that a per-parcel fee will be charged for individuals filing complaints against assessments.
- The fee will be refunded if the assessment review board decides in favour of the complainant.
- Property owners who miss the tax payment deadline will face a six per cent penalty on the outstanding taxes owed starting Sept. 1.
- An additional 10 per cent penalty will be added on Dec. 1 for all unpaid taxes after Nov. 30.
“Like other online bill payments, there may be a processing delay for online tax payments,” said Minchin.
“Therefore, individuals planning to pay their taxes through electronic banking should not leave it until the last minute. To avoid all penalties, Lacombe County must receive tax payments by the last business day in August.
“We recognize the importance of timely tax payments for the smooth functioning of our community,” from Minchin.
“It is crucial for residents to fulfill their obligations and submit their payments by the specified deadline. We are here to assist and answer any questions related to property assessments and tax notices.”
Tax payments are payable to Lacombe County and can be made using one of the following options:
- By mail to: Lacombe County, RR3, Lacombe. The postal code is T4L 2N3. Mailed payments must be postmarked by Canada Post no later than Aug. 31. If the postmark is illegible or missing, the actual date of receipt by the county will apply.
- In person: at the county office (40403 Rge Rd 274) during office hours.
- Deposited in the envelope mailbox located at the road entrance to the county office (do not submit cash).
- Electronically: through electronic payment methods, including Internet banking and for businesses, electronic funds transfer (EFT). Funds must be received in the county’s bank account no later than Aug. 31.
- By credit card: visit www.lacombecounty.com and pay through OptionPay, a third-party site, to make payment by credit card. (Note that there is a fee for this service. Lacombe County does not receive any of the credit card fees).
- The tax installment payment plan: those enrolled in the plan will see their payment adjusted to reflect the new tax rates for 2024 on their next monthly payment.