02/11/11 Representative Bill Friend (R-Macy) authored House Bill 1244 which would allow delinquent Hoosier taxpayers to make installments to pay off their property tax debt.
This bill would allow a county treasurer to negotiate a payment plan for delinquent property owners. The payment amount, installment frequency and payment period will be established and agreed up.
The taxpayer must pay the delinquent taxes in full no later than the last business day before July 1 of the year after the date the agreement is signed.
“The bill possibly will prevent homeowners from losing their property to tax sale, said Rep. Friend. “It will also allow for local government another way to receive revenue. It is not a mandate. It is just another option for the county treasurer and property owners.”
Currently, only Lake County uses this process. Rep. Friend’s intentions are to extend this bill statewide.
“Both the homeowner and municipality are protected in this situation,” said Rep. Friend. “I believe this can be a beneficial option for delinquent tax payers to not lose their home.”
HB 1244 passed the House on its third reading by a vote of 95-0. The bill will now progress to the Senate.
