Jackson County Assessor, Gerald Sherrill, would like to remind Jackson County citizens of the assessment period starting Jan. 2 through March 15. All citizens owning businesses, farm machinery and equipment, or mobile homes are reminded that these items are to be rendered annually at this time.

All new homeowners are encouraged to file for homestead exemption. Due to legislation passed, we are now able to take homestead exemption applications year round. However, to effect the 2013 tax season, the applications must be filed before the March 15 deadline. Homestead exemption is a permanent exemption as long as the owner resides in the home and has not filed a deed changing ownership within the year. If the owner has moved or changed ownership of his/her property, their homestead exemption may be in jeopardy and they are encouraged to notify the Assessors Office to make the necessary changes.

Double homestead exemptions are available for the households who have a total gross household income of $20,000 or less. After the recipient reaches the age of 65, this exemption becomes permanent as long as his/her income does not exceed the $20,000 limit. If the recipient is under the age of 65, he/she must make application annually.

If a homeowner is 65 years of age or older, and has a total gross household income of $53,100 he/she may apply for a valuation limitation (freeze). This limits valuation increases being placed on the property unless an improvement has been made.

Aerial plat books have been updated and are now available. Plat books w/2010 aerials are $90. Colored plat books cost $45.

The Jackson County Assessor’s Office Employees will NOT be traveling to the smaller cities this year to do yearly renditions. We will be mailing out each individual rendition to each taxpayer. Please make changes to the form if necessary and return to the Assessor’s office before March 15, 2013. If you have any questions, please feel free to call our office, (580)482-0787.