Understanding Anthem at Merrill Ranch Real Estate Taxes

Understanding Anthem at Merrill Ranch Real Estate Taxes

Well it's that time of year, taxes are due. Since most of us are newer to Anthem at Merrill Ranch and the tax system in Pinal County, here is some information to help homeowners understand how taxes work in Pinal County and Florence, Arizona.

First, lets look at how real estate taxes in Florence, Arizona are assessed. In Florence, Arizona (and in most states) real estate taxes are always paid in arrears. Taxes in Florence Arizona are assessed January 1, 2009. However, you don't receive your first bill until October of 2009. So, when you pay your taxes in October of 2009, you are actually paying for January through June of 2009 (in arrears). Your second bill (2nd half year taxes) is due March of 2009.

You probably just got a bill recently which gives you 3 coupons as different options for payment along with a long list of taxes that you are paying. And it is probably confusing as to what you actually owe right now.

The tax breakdown section is a list of all the taxes your property is being assessed. If you moved here from another state, it looks like a lot of taxes. This is because all levies that have passed and that you are being taxed on are listed on the 2009 Pinal Tax Statement such as school taxes, water conservation, libray taxes, etc.

Next are the three options for payment:

• Full year payment coupon
• 2009 2nd half year payment coupon
• 2009 1st half year payment coupon

Understand that currently you are responsible for for the 2009 1st half year payment which is (was) due October 1, 2009. Note that if not paid, these taxes become delinquent November 2, 2009. Your next tax bill (the second half taxes) is due March 1, 2010 and become delinquent if not paid by May 3, 2010. If you want to pay both half taxes now, you can by using the full year payment coupon. However, you don't save any money by doing this - you are just paying the second half earlier than due.

Understanding Anthem at Merrill Ranch Real Estate Taxes can be confusing. So, to sum this up: To pay your taxes and be current, you must pay the 2009 1st half year payment using that coupon before November 2, 2009. Hopefully our blog helps with some of the confusion during tax time.