Show All Answers

1. How do I obtain the county’s market value?

Assessment values are available online or by calling Taxpayer Assistance at 816-881-3530.

2. Will I be notified if there is an increase in my assessment?

The Assessor is required by statute to notify the owner of record of any increase in the valuation of real or business personal property.

3. How often is my property assessed?

Properties are assessed every odd year; assessment notices are mailed to inform you of this value.

4. If I am not satisfied with the valuation assessed by the County Assessor, how do I contest it?

To discuss the valuation, call the appropriate unit in which your property is classified:

Residential Assessment Department: 816-881-4661 

Commercial Assessment Department: 816-881-3074 

Business Personal Property: 816-881-4672 

Subsequently, to contest call the office of the Board of Equalization at 816-881-3309

5. How do I appeal the market value on my property to the Board of Equalization?

Appeal forms are available May 1 yearly and may be obtained by calling the office, visit either location, or download forms online.

6. What is the deadline to file an appeal to the Board of Equalization?

The deadline to file an appeal with the Board of Equalization is the 3rd Monday in June per Missouri Statutes unless extended by the Board.

7. How do I know when my warranty deed has been recorded?

Deed information can be obtained by calling the Recorder of Deeds Department at 816-881-1576 or visit online.

8. If I am not satisfied with the Board’s decision is that final or can I appeal their decision?

If you are not satisfied with the Board’s decision you may exercise the right to appeal their decision to the Missouri State Tax Commission. Information is made available at the BOE hearings or visit the Commission website.

9. If I purchased my property on the courthouse steps, do I have the right to file an appeal?

Contact the Board of Equalization (816-881-3309) for direction regarding the appeal process.

10. What can I do, if the deadline for filing a BOE appeal has expired?

Once the appeal deadline has passed a late appeal request to the Board must be submitted in writing for consideration.

11. What happens if I miss my scheduled hearing date?

If no one appears on your behalf at the scheduled hearing, the Board will act at their discretion to determine a fair market value based on the evidence provided and including the County Assessor’s recommendation of value.

12. Who can represent my property at the appeal hearing on my behalf?

Anyone may represent on your behalf; a “Letter of Authorization” is required from the owner of record. However, if the property is represented by an Attorney, an “Entry of Appearance” must be submitted, or if represented by a Tax Agent a “Letter of Authorization” must be submitted.

13. What is the Board of Equalization’s timeline for scheduling hearings?

Hearings may begin July 1 and must end no later than the 4th Saturday in July per Missouri Statutes unless extended by the Board.

14. When do we receive the tax bills?

Tax bills are mailed by the County Collector generally in November and due by December 31 annually.

15. How do I know when and where my Board of Equalization hearing will take place?

Once your appeal form is processed, notification of the hearing will be mailed via postcard indicating the date, time, and location of your hearing.

16. Why would I receive an “Assessed Value Notice” for my business; is it assessed annually?

Notices reflect new or updated changes with tangible assets within the County’s records as of January 1. Therefore, "Assessed Value Notices" are mailed annually for taxation purposes.

17. If I pay my tax bill before the BOE value adjustment is granted; will I be entitled to a refund?

Yes. If a refund is applicable, the refund will be processed and made payable to the remitter of payment.

18. Does the County have any tax relief for senior citizens?

The County offers a Senior Citizen Quad Pay Program for real estate taxes. (current year only); for information call the Collections Department at 816-881-3232.

Missouri Department of Revenue website.

19. What is replacement tax?

The replacement tax is a “surcharge” that replaced the pre-1984 Merchant and Manufacturing Inventory tax (applies to commercial property only).

20. How do I know if my property is subject to additional taxes for CID, NID, special assessments, etc.?

The special tax will appear on last year’s tax bill or contact the Collections Department at 816-881-3232.

21. Can I request the County to split my property?

Contact the GIS Department either in person or by written letter. The GIS Department can be reached at:
303 W Walnut Street
Independence, MO 64050
Phone: 816-881-4561

22. How can I get my property combined?

Contact the GIS Department either in person or by written letter. The GIS Department can be reached at:
303 W Walnut Street
Independence, MO 64050
Phone: 816-881-4561

23. How do I change the location or my property address on Jackson County’s tax roll?

Contact the GIS Department either in person or by written letter. The GIS Department can be reached at:
303 W Walnut Street
Independence, MO 64050
Phone: 816-881-4561

24. How do I change the mailing address on Jackson County's tax rolls?

An incorrect mailing address can be changed by visiting either the downtown Kansas City or Historic Truman Courthouses or go online and complete a form.

Show All Answers

1. What types of documents are available through Recorder of Deeds Department?

Copies of recorded real estate documents, marriage licenses and UCC filings are available from the Recorder of Deeds Department. For more information about available documents and the services provided by the Recorder of Deeds Department, read the Searching Public Records page.

2. How do I obtain a copy of my birth certificate?

Learn how to acquire birth certificates on the Vital Records page.

3. What is the procedure for obtaining a copy of a document?

Representatives of the Recorder of Deeds Department are available to assist you in obtaining copies of recorded real estate documents, marriage licenses and UCC filings. They will instruct you in how to search for a document utilizing the indexes, microfilm viewers and PC online Search System. These instructions are limited to 10 minutes.

4. What are the fees for obtaining copies?

The fees for copies can be found on the Recording Fees page.

5. Is it possible to receive a copy by mail?

Yes. Just send in a written request to our office in Independence:
Historic Truman Courthouse
Recorder of Deeds Department
112 W Lexington
Suite 30
Independence, MO 64050

Checks should be made payable to the "Recorder of Deeds."

6. Can you do a document search for me over the telephone?

No. Telephone searches are not conducted. You may come into the Recorder of Deeds Department and search our database for the information you need, mail in a request enclosing a check for the copy fees applicable (see above), or you may perform your search online by accessing our website.

7. Can you help me complete a records search?

Yes, we can assist you in reviewing indexes, microfilm, computer records, etc.; however, please be advised that we are prohibited by state statute from making determinations on records stored in this office. Professional title companies and real estate abstracters do engage in authoritative searches of this nature, and can assist in these endeavors.

Show All Answers

1. What is a performance audit?

An independent assessment of the performance of a program or department evaluating its economy, efficiency, program effectiveness, management controls, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

2. What does scope mean?

The scope of an audit refers to what organization functions will be included for review as part of the audit. Internal Audit wants to maximize its resources by concentrating on specific significant areas within a department. The audit scope is determined through review of the organization’s functions, discussion with the organization's management and auditor judgments.

3. What is an audit finding?

If a significant issue is identified during the audit of a department (such as an overpayment to a vendor), the County Auditor expresses the results of its audit work as findings. Findings have certain elements, including criteria or basis for determining that a problem does exist, a condition or situation that was observed, the effect or impact of the condition, and the cause of the problem to the extent that it can be determined. Findings should result in recommendations that resolve the issue and are helpful to the policy makers, management and audited department.

4. Who receives audit reports?

Audit reports are issued to the County Legislature, County Executive, and County auditee.

5. Who does the County Auditor report to?

The County Auditor is appointed by and reports to the County Legislature. The County Charter establishes the position of the County Auditor as independent of the executive and judicial branches and directly responsible to the governing body, the County Legislature.

Show All Answers

1. How do I add or change names on a deed?

This office is not permitted to complete forms, help customers fill out forms, or to check forms. We can only check to see that the document presented meets the minimum legal requirements for recording. If the customer needs help, he/she can get a book from the library or book store to help guide him/her, but the better solution is to have the deed - or any legal document - prepared by an attorney. Read more on the Changing the Name on the Deed page.

2. How do I remove the name of a deceased owner from a deed?

One of the questions this office is most frequently asked is how to remove the name of a deceased person from the deed to property or how to otherwise "clear up" the deed, so that the property can be conveyed.

Unfortunately, this is not a process that is so easily accomplished that individuals can be assured of doing it correctly without the assistance of an attorney. Many factors must be taken into consideration including, but not limited to, future interests, trusts and taxes.

Read more on the Changing the Name on the Deed page.

3. Why might my document get rejected?

By ensuring that your documents do not violate the following requirements you can significantly reduce the chances that your document will be rejected for recording. Read a listing of some of the most common reasons why documents are rejected for recording and returned to the submitting party on the Document Rejection page.

Show All Answers

1. Have you lost or misplaced your paid tax receipt?

Anyone who has paid Jackson County personal or real estate property taxes may get a duplicate tax receipt.

2. How much is a duplicate receipt?

You may obtain a duplicate of your original property tax receipt for free online. You may also obtain a duplicate of your original property tax receipt from our offices. There is a $1 fee for each duplicate receipt. To obtain your property tax receipt, visit the Online Payment Program page.

3. Why do I need a personal property tax receipt?

To register your vehicle or renew your license plates, you must present your paid county personal property tax receipt to the Department of Revenue license office. If you are seeking to renew your vehicle tags for a 2 year period, you will need to present paid receipts for the prior 2 tax years.

4. Why do I need a real estate property tax receipt?

You may need proof that your real estate taxes are paid for the purpose of filing income tax returns or seeking possible Missouri Homestead or Missouri Senior Citizen Tax rebates and or credits. Learn more about State Tax credits.

5. Can the Department of Revenue find out if my taxes were paid without a receipt?

The Collections Department provides monthly updated records of paid personal property tax information to the Missouri Department of Revenue; however, Missouri law still requires the taxpayer take his or her personal property receipts with him or her to the Department of Revenue license office when registering or renewing a vehicle registration.

Show All Answers

1. What are Escrow Taxes?

Escrow taxes are funds which have been collected by a bank, loan, mortgage or other escrow service company from the property owner for the payment of taxes. These funds are usually collected monthly as part of the regular payment and held in escrow until the taxes are due. The escrow company will request the billing be sent to the escrow company’s address and should remit payment to the Collector’s Office on behalf of the owner. Contact the Collector's Office at 816-881-3232.

2. What will happen if my mortgage or escrow company does not pay my taxes by December 31?

You are responsible for the payment of your real estate property taxes whether or not you have escrowed with your lien holder. Real estate property tax bills that are not paid before January 1 will accrue late penalties and fees. Learn about property tax bills on the Real Estate Taxes page.

3. I recently purchased real estate; will I receive a bill this year?

The new owner is responsible for the taxes on the property irregardless if a tax bill is received. If you are a new owner and have not received a tax bill by December 10, please contact the Collector’s Office immediately for further instruction. Contact the Collector's Office online.

4. My loan has been paid off. Will my mortgage / escrow company still pay the taxes this year?

Please check with your mortgage / escrow company. An escrow company serves as your agent and in the event the escrow company does not pay the tax bill by December 31, you must do so in order to avoid interest and penalties. If you did not receive a tax bill and you believe your mortgage / escrow company will not pay the bill, please contact the Collector’s office immediately so we may provide a tax bill to you, you can call 816-881-3232.

5. I have moved recently and have not received my tax bill. Who should I notify?

Please notify the Assessor’s Office immediately of any changes to your address. Escrow companies do not notify Jackson County of a taxpayer’s mailing address change. If you do not have an escrow service company and you have not received a bill before December 10, contact the Collector’s Office immediately, so we can forward a copy of the tax bill to you. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve your obligation to pay property taxes and any late charges due. Contact the Assessor's Office.

Show All Answers

1. What is an ombudsman?

An ombudsman is a designated neutral or impartial dispute resolution practitioner who provides confidential and informal assistance to his/her constituents.

2. What skills does it take to be an ombudsman?

An effective ombudsman must:
- Have skills in communicating effectively
- Have the ability to work with all segments of the community
- Know the policies and procedures in which the government functions
- Posses the ability to be creative in developing resolutions that are fundamentally fair to all

3. What does an ombudsman office do?

An ombudsman office provides impartial complaint handling services for citizens who have disputes against government agencies or officials. The office will investigate valid complaints and if justified makes recommendations to remedy the complaint.

4. Who can I file a complaint against?

Any citizen can file a complaint against any County officer, board member, legislator or employee.

5. Is there a fee for this service?

The office is available to all citizens without a fee. However, a 10-center per page fee is charged for the copying of files or documents.

6. What can’t the office provide? Can the office get monies owed to me?

The Ethics, Human Relations and Citizen Complaints Department cannot by its own authority revise any administrative or legislative decision.

The EHRCC cannot recommend or obtain money for citizens. If a citizen is seeking monetary gains, he/she will be directed to the judicial system where such matters are handled. The EHRCC office does not intervene in criminal or civil court matters.

The mission of the EHRCC is to secure and protect the individual rights of citizens of Jackson County:
- By reconciling problems, issues and tension between government and citizens
- Promoting justice and improving human relations
- Improving the quality of government administration

Show All Answers

1. This is an example of a frequently asked question.

answer

2. This is an example of a frequently asked question.

answer

3. This is an example of a frequently asked question.

answer

Show All Answers

1. What is the difference between a location address and a mailing address on my tax bill?

Location refers to the address for your individual parcel, which is created by your local city. This is different from your mailing address, which is where the county sends all assessment/tax correspondence. The mailing address is the address you provide us on your deed or personal property tax declaration. For the majority of homeowners these are the same.

2. What if my location address is incorrect on the county's website or my tax bill?

An incorrect location address has no impact on your property assessment, property taxes or property transfers. The county identifies properties by the legal description on your recorded document. When you buy or sell property you are actually transferring the legal description, not the address. Taxes are based on the legal description, not your address.

3. How do I change my location address?

An incorrect location address can only be changed once the city has notified the county. You can contact the city in which your property is located and ask them to confirm and notify the county as to the correct location address of the parcel. You may also fill out a form.

4. How do I change my mailing address?

An incorrect mailing address can be changed by visiting either the downtown Kansas City or Independence courthouses. You may also fill out a form and mail it.

5. My location address says I live in Independence, but my mailing address says Blue Springs. Why is this?

This is because your property is within the city limits of Independence, but your mail goes through a Blue Springs zip code.

Show All Answers

1. Why Lee's Summit Road?

Lee's Summit Road dates back to a cowpath in the 1800's. The last time work was done on this section of road was the bridge built in the 1950's. It does not meet modern standards of safety or road design and doesn't serve the traffic patterns and population of the area. It also needs to serve as an alternate route for I-470 when there is backup traffic.

2. Will The Road Be In The Same Location?

The project boundaries are 40 Hwy to the north to just south of Anderson Road. The north 2/3 will follow basically the same alignment, widening the road on both sides.
On the south 1/3, the road will shift to the east to allow the new bridge to be built on the east side of the existing bridge. This way the existing bridge will remain in service during construction.

3. Are There Provisions For Pedestrians & Bicyclists?

The new road will provide a five foot bike lane on each side of the road, an eight foot multi-use path on the east side of the road, and a five foot sidewalk on the west side of the road.

4. What About The Existing Bridge?

The existing bridge no longer meets the needs of the area. It will be destroyed once the new bridge is built to replace it.

5. Why 3 Lanes?

Traffic studies done in 2010 indicated that three lanes would be necessary to provide the best service to the area through 2040.

6. Which Section Is Jackson County Building?

The Jackson County portion of the Lee's Summit Road construction begins about 1300 feet south of Anderson Road and ends at 48th St Terrace.

Show All Answers

1. What do I need to get married?

In the state of Missouri, in order to be legally married, you must have obtained a marriage license prior to your marriage ceremony. The ceremony must take place in the state of Missouri within 30 days of the application. The Recorder of Deeds Department can issue you a marriage license. This license is valid in any county in Missouri.

2. Where do I apply for a marriage license?

Jackson County has 2 locations where you may apply for a marriage license:
Jackson County Courthouse
Recorder of Deeds Department
415 East 12th Street
Room 104
Kansas City, Missouri 64106
Phone: 816-881-1576

Historic Truman Courthouse
112 W Lexington
Suite 30
Independence, Missouri 64050
Phone: 816-881-4608

3. When can I apply for a marriage license?

Marriage license applications are accepted from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. in both locations, Monday through Friday, except on legal holidays.

4. What information is required to obtain a marriage license?

Both parties must be present at the time of application. Visit the Marriage Identification Requirements page

5. How much does a marriage license cost?

The fee for applying for a marriage license is $50. Cash, credit (except American Express) or debit accepted. This fee is non-refundable. If you are going to change your name after the wedding ceremony, a certified copy of the marriage license is available for $10. Read more on the License Fees page.

6. Is a blood test required for a marriage license?

No. A blood test is no longer required.

7. After I apply for the marriage license, how soon can I get married?

Pursuant to changes in Missouri Law, there is no longer a 3-day waiting period. The marriage license is now issued at the time of application. The marriage must take place within 30 days from the date of issuance and be performed within in the State of Missouri. After 30 days, the license is void and must be returned to the Recorder of Deeds Department.

8. Can someone at the Recorder of Deeds perform my marriage?

Employees of the Recorder of Deeds Department are not licensed to perform marriage ceremonies.

9. Who can perform a wedding ceremony?

Find out who can perform a ceremony on the Performing a Ceremony page.

10. Is there any special information I need if I am getting married after being divorced?

Previously married individuals must provide the date that their last marriage ended. There is no waiting period after a divorce before an individual may apply for a marriage license.

Show All Answers

1. What cases should be reported to the Medical Examiner Office?

These guidelines are intended to assist in determining what constitutes a Coroner/Medical Examiner Death Case and how to report a case. Reporting Guidelines

2. Who is a Medical Examiner?

A Medical Examiner is a medical doctor, usually a Forensic Pathologist. The Medical Examiner certifies the cause and manner of death, based on his/her expert opinion following an investigation and medical examination. This examination may include an autopsy and laboratory tests such as toxicology. The medical examiner also completes a report and creates a file for each decedent to document his/her findings in a lasting way. The Medical Examiner's team consists of many other individuals, who assist in various ways with the investigation, administrative tasks, and autopsies. These individuals include Forensic Technicians, Investigators, Office Specialists, Transcriptionists, and Managers.

3. What is the difference between a Medical Examiner and a Coroner?

Medical Examiners and coroners are two different groups that meet a similar need in their communities. Coroners are part of an older system dating back many centuries, to a time when the job of the "Crowner" was to make sure a decedent's taxes had been paid to the King. Today, the coroner's main duties are to inquire into the cause and manner of a death, and to complete the death certificate. Coroners are usually elected laypersons who may or may not have medical training, depending on local statutes. Coroners contract with pathologist or forensic pathologist who provides autopsies and medical expertise to support the coroner's investigations.

In contrast, the Medical Examiner system is a modern invention, a streamlined system for medicolegal death investigation. Medical Examiners are almost always appointed to their positions rather than elected, are always physicians, and should have specialized training in forensic pathology. The Medical Examiner system is the trend of the future in death investigation in the United States, with over half of the states using this system.

In rare circumstances, the terminology may become complex, as a Forensic Pathologist may also be the elected Coroner.

In the state of Missouri, larger urban counties operate under Medical Examiner jurisdiction, while smaller counties, by statute, operate under coroner jurisdiction. Coroners from several rural Missouri counties contract with the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office for autopsy services when needed. Medical Examiner

4. What is Forensic Pathology?

Forensic Pathology is a subspecialty of pathology that studies disease and injury and how they interface with legal issues. Forensic Pathologists conduct specialized forensic autopsies, provide expert testimony in courts of law, and are at the leading edge of surveillance for new patterns of disease and injury. The modern practice of Forensic Pathology contributes to the public health and public safety of our communities.

5. Who is a Forensic Pathologist?

A Forensic Pathologist is a physician -- a licensed medical doctor who has received specialized training in Anatomic Pathology and Forensic Pathology. This training process lasts for up to an additional six years after graduation from medical school. After completion of the training period, a pathologist can sit for examinations offered by the American Board of Pathology. If a passing grade is achieved on the examination, the board confers certification on the tested areas.

The Jackson County Chief Medical Examiner and Deputy Medical Examiners are board-certified in Anatomic and Forensic Pathology. Some of our medical staff are also board-certified in other areas of pathology, such as Clinical Pathology.

Newly hired Medical Examiners must become board-certified within two years of employment.

6. How is jurisdiction determined?

The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office will retain jurisdiction for those deaths that are medical examiner cases in Jackson and Cass counties. Death certificates will be issued from the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office for those deaths that are medical examiner cases, including deaths from injury or who die suddenly and unexpectedly while in apparent good health, suspicious deaths, or deaths when there is no doctor to sign the death certificate. Jackson County currently provides complete forensic services to Jackson and Cass Counties under contract for death investigations, autopsy and lab testing as well as court testimony when necessary. Over 20 other Missouri counties utilize the Medical Examiner’s Office on a referral basis. Autopsies services and other tests are performed to determine cause and manner of death for these counties on a fee for service basis. The death certificates are issued by the referral county coroner/medical examiner based upon the autopsy findings. Local authorities in the referral county will conduct their own scene investigations and share their information with the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Medical Examiner

7. What is an autopsy?

Also called a post-mortem examination, an autopsy is a systematized, intricate surgical procedure performed after death. It involves external and internal examination of a body, organs and tissues, and often subsequent laboratory testing to determine cause and manner of death. The body is examined both externally and internally, with examination of all major organs to document injury or disease. Small samples of internal organs are retained for microscopic examination and body fluids are obtained and tested for drugs and alcohol.

8. Can I stop an autopsy?

The state statue gives jurisdiction and authority to the Medical Examiner / Forensic Pathologist to decide if an autopsy is needed to determine cause and manner of death. Family permission is not required, unlike a hospital autopsy.

Autopsies are performed to answer medicolegal questions that are deemed in the “public’s interest" or to address a question of law. However, we recognize that an individual's religious or personal beliefs may be contrary to the performance of an autopsy. In the event of a homicide or suspicious circumstances of death, the Medical Examiner WILL perform an autopsy. If the death is not a homicide, the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office is open to discussion to try to accommodate the families wishes while still meeting our mission and fulfilling the legal obligation presented by an individual's death. If a family wishes for an autopsy not to be performed, they may request so by phone with the on-duty investigator at 816-881-6600.

9. Is there a charge for an autopsy?

No. There is no charge for an autopsy performed under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner’s Office (Jackson, Cass, Clay and Platte Counties) when it is determined by the Medical Examiner that an autopsy is warranted. The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office does not perform private autopsies.

10. Under what circumstances is an autopsy performed or not performed?

Visit our Autopsy Circumstances page to find a list of reasons why we require an autopsy. Autopsy Circumstances

11. How do I request an autopsy report?

If a party is requesting an autopsy report, we must receive that request in writing. Autopsy Request

12. How do I request a death certificate?

The Medical Examiner’s Office does not issue death certificates. Once our portion of the death certificate is completed, the original is sent to the funeral home for finalization and then forwarded to the Bureau of Vital Records to be filed with the State of Missouri. Obtaining A Death Certificate Copy

13. How can I request a correction to a death certificate?

Corrections on a death certificate require an affidavit to be filed with the State of Missouri. The party responsible for the mistake is responsible for correcting the mistake. For more information on the process after the Bureau of Vital Statistics receives the affidavit, please call them at 573-751-6387 or visit their website. Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

14. May I view my loved one at the Medical Examiner's Office?

The deceased may be viewed at the funeral home following release from the Medical Examiner's Office.

15. What is the process for claiming my loved one’s body?

The legal next of kin is responsible for determining disposition of the body. If no next of kin can be located, a friend or organization may make arrangements. The body is available to be claimed after the medical examiner approves the release, which occurs following examination and identification. To claim a body, call the on-duty investigator (816-881-6600) and provide the name of the chosen funeral home. Our investigator will then contact the funeral home that will obtain the body from our office. Funeral homes may not call to state that the family wishes to use their services. The next of kin/friend must personally notify the MEO that an individual is to go to a specific funeral home.

16. How can I retrieve my loved one’s personal property?

Except for evidence, any personal items transported to the Medical Examiner's Office are released to the funeral home along with the body at the time he/she is transported. In case of an emergency in which an item (such as a key) is immediately needed, you can contact the on-duty investigator at 816-881-6600.

All evidence collected is released to the investigating agency. Family should contact the investigating police agency for recovery of those items.

17. What is the Medical Examiner's Office role in organ and tissue donation?

At the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office, one of our goals is to facilitate organ and tissue donation for the benefit of the family and the community. Organ and Tissue Donation

18. What if a decedent has no next-of-kin or the body is not claimed?

The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office seeks the assistance of the public to help locate next of kin and/or friends to claim the remains. Efforts are made to locate next of kin to claim the body. Short newspaper notices are posted locally to look for next of kin and/or friends. If no responses have been generated, the process of county burial will begin for the county to take jurisdiction and begin county disposition procedures. View a list of unclaimed decedents at the medical examiners office. If you have any information, please call 816-881-6600 and speak with an on-duty investigator.

Show All Answers

1. What type of property is considered taxable personal property?

The following types of personal property are considered taxable: motor vehicles, trailers, mobile homes, watercraft, boat motors, aircraft, livestock, farm machinery and equipment, and any other personal property not exempted by law. There may be circumstances when a mobile home may be considered real property and not personal property. For more information, contact the Assessment Department.

2. I don't own this vehicle anymore, why am I getting a bill on it?

Taxes are assessed on property owned on January 1 each year. Even if you no longer own the vehicle, own a different vehicle, or no longer own any vehicle, the tax is based on what was owned on January 1. The tax amount is not prorated. The total tax amount is due upon receipt of the statement, but no later than December 31 or interest, penalties, and fees will be assessed.

3. Do I have to pay my taxes in person?

No, you may mail your payment, pay in person at one of the County’s Collection Department Offices or our satellite offices, or you may also pay your property taxes on-line through the internet 24 hours a day. Please note that the online payment website will close at 11 p.m., December 31.

The Jackson County Courthouse is located at:
415 E 12th Street
Suite 100
Kansas City, MO 64106

The Historic Truman Courthouse is located at:
112 W Lexington
Suite 114
Independence, MO 64050

Both courthouses are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by Jackson County.

To make an online payment, visit our Online Payment Program.

4. When are my taxes due?

Under state law taxes are due upon receipt of the tax bill but no later than December 31. Interest, penalties and fees will accrue if payment is late.

For payments made by mail to be on time, the U.S. postal service postmark date must be December 31 or earlier. To ensure your mailed payment is timely, contact the Post Office to determine the office hours for mail postmark. Payments placed in Post Office Mail drop boxes do not always receive the same day postmark. The collector’s office highly recommends mailing several days before the December 31 deadline. You can read more on our Tax Deadline Information page.

5. I need to license a car not included on my paid tax receipt. What do I do?

If you bought your car after January one of last year, use last year's receipt. Property taxes are not owed on a vehicle new to you until you've owned it on January 1. If you owned the vehicle on January one of last year and it is not listed on your receipt, or is incorrect on your receipt or statement, please contact the Assessment Department.

6. I am no longer a Missouri resident. Do I still owe this tax bill?

Yes. Under state law, your tax obligation is established on January 1. Even if you move to a different state the next day, you are still taxed as if you owned the vehicle for the entire year. The tax bill is not pro-rated. The entire amount is due. However, if you move into Missouri on January 2, you are not taxed for that year.

7. I am renewing 2-year license plates. Which years’ personal property tax receipts do I need?

If you were assessed and paid taxes in Jackson County for the prior two years, you need the prior two years’ receipts. If you were assessed in another Missouri County, you should contact that county for copies of that county’s receipts. If you cannot locate your Jackson County tax receipt for the appropriate year, to reprint your Official Paid Tax Receipt visit the Online Payment Program page.

8. I have lost my personal property tax receipt. How do I obtain a duplicate?

To obtain a duplicate of your original property tax receipt for free, visit the Online Payment Program page.

9. I have moved. Do I need to let you know my new address?

Yes. We mail bills to the address on file. Every year mail is returned by the Post Office as undeliverable because the forwarding time has expired. Interest, penalties and fees will accrue and are due if the bill is not paid before January 1, whether or not the bill is received by the taxpayer. Simply notifying the post office or the Missouri Department of Motor Vehicles of your new mailing address is not sufficient to insure a change to your county tax account. You may update your address by visiting the Assessment Department or by mailing a completed change of address form, which you can download online (PDF).

10. Why is my tax bill so high?

The amount of tax you owe is based on the assessed value of the tangible personal property you owned on January one of that year and the levy rates provided by the political subdivisions (example, school districts, city, fire district, etc.) in which you reside. The higher the assessed value, the higher the amount due will be. Additional fees such as city sticker fees or late declaration filing fees may also appear in your bill total. The value of the property is determined by the county assessor using standardized information. The assessed value of your vehicles and other property is listed on your tax bill.

Your personal property tax is calculated by dividing the assessed value of the property by 100, and then multiplying that value by the levy rate for your area:

Personal Property Tax = (Assessed Value/100) x (Levy Rate)

The Collection Department cannot lower your assessed value, levy rate or tax bill amount.

11. How do I avoid paying late fees?

Your payment must be received by the collector or postmarked no later than December 31. Interest, penalties and fees will accrue if payment is late. Online payment is late if made after the online payment website closes at 11 p.m., December 31. Online payment is not made until the online payment transaction is completed. Payment by mail will be late if postmarked after December 31. Late payment must include interest, penalties and fees as accrued for the month of payment. Additional interest, penalty and fee charges will accumulate on the first of each month beginning January 1 until the bill is paid in full.

When taxes are not paid in a timely manner, Missouri law requires the Collector to impose penalty, fee and interest charges additional to the base tax. Historically, some delinquent taxpayers have requested waivers for these additional charges. Please be advised that the Jackson County Collector does not waive penalties, interest or fees resulting from late payment by a taxpayer.

If you believe your payment was made timely and that late charges were therefore assessed in error please mail documentation necessary to support your belief to the Collection Department.

12. What items do I take with me to renew my license plates?

You will need:
- Paid personal property tax receipt(s) or statement of non-assessment as requested by the Department of Revenue
- Motor vehicle inspection slip, if required
- Proof of insurance
- Title or renewal notice, if applicable

For more information, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

13. I have a city sticker fee listed on my tax bill. What is this fee?

There are 7 cities that charge a city sticker fee for autos, truck and cycles within their city limits.

14. I did not owe personal property taxes last year in Jackson County. How can I obtain my license plates?

The Motor Vehicle Bureau will accept a non-assessment form in place of a paid property tax receipt. This form states that you were neither assessed nor owe taxes in Jackson County. You may obtain a non-assessment form from the Assessment Department if:
- You are new to the state of Missouri
- You are licensing the first vehicle in your name
- You do not have personal property tax obligation to any Missouri county

For additional information, contact the Assessment Department.

15. I recently moved to Jackson County from another state and have never paid personal property tax in Missouri. What do I need to do?

If you have recently moved to Jackson County, you will need to visit the Jackson County Assessment Department, 816-881-1330. You can also contact the Department online.

16. I recently moved to Jackson County from another county in Missouri. What do I need to do?

If you have current paid property tax receipts or a tax waiver from your previous county for the last two years, you will take these along with the other required information, such as titles/application for title, vehicle registrations or renewals, to the Department of Revenue branch office. However, it is important that you contact the Jackson County Assessment Department by calling 816-881-1330, and let them know you are now a resident of Jackson County and need to be placed on the tax rolls. You can learn more from the Assessment Department.

17. I lease my vehicle. Who pays the personal property taxes?

The leasing company is billed for personal property taxes on all vehicles it owned on January 1. Please check your lease agreement for additional information. Please do not add your leased vehicle to your personal property declaration as the leased vehicle is owned by the leasing company, not you as an individual taxpayer.

18. My leasing company pays my personal property taxes. What will I need to take to the license bureau?

You will need:
- Paid personal property tax receipt(s) listing the leased vehicle or statement of non-assessment as requested by the Department of Revenue
- Motor vehicle inspection slip, if required
- Proof of insurance
- Title or renewal notice, if applicable

For further information, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

Show All Answers

1. How do I sign up for a Prescription Drug Card?

Please view the Prescription Drug Card page to find out! Prescription Drug Card Page

2. How much does the plan cost?

Your prescription discount card is provided to you free of charge by the County.

3. Does everyone in my family need an individual card?

No. Everyone in the family may use the same card if desired.

4. Can I use this card to get discounts on my pet's medications?

Yes, if your pet has been prescribed a medication, you may receive a discount on the medication by taking the prescription to a participating retail pharmacy.

5. I just received my card. Can I use it right away?

Yes. Just use your card to start saving immediately. Present your prescription discount card at a participating retail pharmacy when you fill or refill your prescriptions.

6. I've lost my card. How can I get a replacement?

Please call toll free 877-321-2652.

7. Can I use my card to get discounts on over-the-counter products and non-prescription medications?

Not usually. However, discounts are available for many diabetic supplies.

8. How is this prescription discount program different from traditional prescription insurance?

This plan is not insurance. It is a prescription discount program. The card provides immediate discounts at the pharmacy. Upon presenting your card to the pharmacist, you will pay the lower of a discounted price or the pharmacy's regular retail price. There are no claim forms to fill out and no limit to the number of times you can use the card. These discounts are available only at participating retail pharmacies.

9. Can I use my prescription discount card with my current insurance benefit to reduce my costs?

Your card cannot be used in conjunction with other insurance. However, you are able to use your card to purchase prescriptions that are not covered by these plans.

10. Can I still use my prescription discount card if I sign up for a Medicare prescription plan?

Yes. You can use your prescription discount card anytime you need to purchase a prescription that is not covered by your Medicare prescription plan or any other insurance.

11. Should I use my prescription discount card during my deductible and coverage gap periods of coverage for covered medications?

No. Only use your prescription discount to purchase non-covered medications.

12. Can I use my prescription discount card in addition to my Medicare prescription plan and get additional discounts?

No. You need to present either your Medicare prescription plan card or your prescription discount card. Only use your prescription discount card when purchasing medications not covered by your Medicare prescription plan.

13. I'm not going to sign up for a Medicare prescription plan. Can I still use my prescription discount card?

Yes. You can continue to use your prescription discount card just as you do today.

14. Which pharmacies accept the card?

The prescription discount card is accepted at 57,000 retail pharmacies nationwide, including made of the leading chains. Ask your local pharmacy if they participate or call toll free 877-321-2652 to find out if a specific pharmacy participates in the program.

15. How much will I save?

While savings on each prescription may vary, you can save an average of 20% off of the pharmacy's regular retail prices for prescription drugs. In addition, you may save even more by choosing from our list of select medications. This list is comprised of products offering additional savings.

16. Will I always receive the lowest price?

Yes. You will receive the best price available to you through this program at the pharmacy. On occasion, pharmacies will price a particular medication lower than the discount rate provided by the card. If this occurs, you will receive the lower price.

17. Can I find out the discount price of my prescriptions before going to the pharmacy?

Because prices can vary by location. Only the actual pharmacy can tell you the exact price of the prescription. However, you can look up an estimated price for medications by calling toll free 1-877-321-2652 or visit the National Association of Counties website.

18. Why did the price of my prescription change since the last time I purchased the prescription?

Drug prices differ from pharmacy to pharmacy. Even chains have different prices in their stores depending on the population they are serving. Additionally, manufacturers' drug prices change periodically.

19. The brochure says I can save an average of 20% on my prescription medication. Will I save 20% on all medications?

Because a pharmacy's retail price or usual and customary charge can differ greatly by pharmacy, your exact percentage of savings may vary depending on the prescription drug and the price you have paid before.

20. Do I have to choose between my prescription discount card and the Wal-Mart $4 generic option?

No. Always present your prescription discount card at a participating pharmacy, including Wal-Mart, so you will receive the lowest price available from the pharmacy for that prescription medicine on that day. You will receive the $4 price, when applicable, and the prescription discount card discounted price when it is lower.

21. Should I still present my prescription discount card at Wal-Mart when buying a $4 generic?

Yes. Always present your prescription discount card when buying prescriptions not covered by a prescription drug benefit plan. For generic medicine on the Wal-Mart list, you will pay either $4 or the prescription discount card price, whichever is lower.

22. Can I get an additional discount off the Wal-Mart Generic Drug Program - $4 for select generics - if I show my prescription discount card?

No. When presenting your prescription discount card, you will receive either the pharmacy's regular price for the prescription medicine or the prescription discount card discounted price, whichever is lower. If Wal-Mart's $4 price for select generics is lower than the prescription card price, you will pay $4. With the prescription discount card, you will receive the best price available for your prescription medicine on that day from that pharmacy.

23. What are specialty pharmacies and what kinds of services do they offer?

A specialty pharmacy offers delivery of injectable and select oral specialty medication and supplies to the location of your choice. Services include delivery notification and refill reminder calls to help you stay on your treatment plan. You'll also receive expert care services including counseling, follow-up care calls, informative disease-related materials and access to health experts 24/7.

24. Which drugs are offered through a specialty pharmacy?

Medications for a variety of chronic conditions including:
- Blood dyscrasia
- Crohn's disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Fabry disease
- Gaucher disease
- Growth hormone deficiency
- Hemophilia
- Hepatitis C
- Immunologic disorders
- Infertility
- MPS 1
- Multiple sclerosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
More are available through specialty pharmacies.

25. What is Mail Service?

With the Caremark Mail Service program, you can purchase up to a 90-day supply of select medications from the mail service pharmacy for a fixed price. It's easy to get started with mail service - just send in the mail service order form along with your original prescription, to Caremark. For a list of medications available and to receive an order form please call toll free 877-321-2652 or visit the National Association of Counties website.

Show All Answers

1. Why the switch?

Using this service will make the quoting process easier for Jackson County and our suppliers. The Public Purchase eProcurement System was designed exclusively for use by government agencies and their vendors.

2. How does this benefit Jackson County?

This eProcurement system is compliant with all federal and state regulations, which determine the required procedures for government agency purchasing practices. This service will also create an up-to-date vendor database, which will be hosted on Public Purchase's servers and will allow suppliers to easily update and change their information as needed.

3. How does this benefit you?

This eProcurement system will create a single location in which to view open requests for quotation and award information for previous RFQ's issued through the Public Purchase website. This system will also provide you with automatic notification and transmittal of bid solicitations to vendors.In addition, Public Purchase gives you access to bid opportunities with other government entities. All of this is provided at no charge to you.

Show All Answers

1. How much does participating in Jackson County's E-Purchasing cost?

There is no charge to register and profile your company, search for bidding opportunities and bid online. Only in the event you are the successful awarded vendor in an electronic bid situation will a 1% transaction fee apply through January 31, 2010. Beginning February 1, 2010, a 1.25& administrative fee will apply.

2. How do I sign up?

You will need to register and profile your company on the Internet. Register with Sicomm and bid online by visiting their website.

3. How do I get help?

If you are having difficulty with online registration, please call the Sicomm Help Desk at 800-575-9955, option 2.

Show All Answers

1. How much does it cost to file a real estate document?

The filing fee for a 1-page document is $21. If there are any additional pages, there is a $3 charge for each additional page. Any material on the back of the page will be counted as an additional page and an additional $25 non-standard fee will be assessed. This same $25 fee will be assessed if the document does not meet the Missouri standard formatting requirements, but the fee may only be charged once per document.

2. Where do I file the documents?

Real Estate located in Jackson County, irrespective of location, can be recorded at either of the following locations:
Jackson County Courthouse
Recorder of Deeds Department
415 E 12th Street
Room 104
Kansas City, MO 64106

Historic Truman Courthouse
Recorder of Deeds Department
112 W Lexington
Suite 30
Independence, MO 64050

Important Note: The Recorder of Deeds processes its mail at the department's Independence office. Please send all documents for recording to the Independence address listed here.

Our real estate records date back to 1826 and copies of these documents are available to the public at either courthouse location. Documents may be filed in person or they may be mailed with your check.

3. To whom should I make the check payable?

Checks should be made payable to the "Recorder of Deeds Department."

4. Does each document need to be notarized?

Real estate documents must be notarized with a full acknowledgement.

5. What is the required information contained in any real estate filing?

Effective January 1, 2002, the State of Missouri implemented new formatting laws affecting all documents presented for recording. Please see the section relating to this standardization law for a listing of the new requirements. As a point of clarification, when the law references the required legal description, please note that this is different from the street address. The county assessment department can help you obtain this information.

The legal description contained on your tax bill is not necessarily a complete legal description, so please do not use it without verifying it. In addition, all instruments affecting real estate must contain a mailing address of at least one of the grantees. If the original Deed of Trust is dated prior to January 1, 1986, the original Deed of Trust must be included with a Deed of Release. If the original note has been destroyed or lost, affidavits may be presented with the deed of release. An attorney can help you with this.

6. Can you help me fill out the documents?

No. By statute this office can only file or reject the documents which are presented to us. If assistance is needed, it is always best to consult an attorney.

7. What is required in filing plats and surveys?

In order to file a plat, 2 mylar copies and 2 paper copies must be presented at the time of recording. They must be notarized and contain the proper seals, approvals and forms. The fee for recording a plat is $41 for an 18 inches by 24 inches page, while larger plats up to 24 inches by 36 inches are assessed an additional $25 fee. (There is an additional fee for more than one page.)

For each survey filed, 2 mylar copies and 2 paper copies must be presented. These must contain the surveyor's seal. Signatures must be notarized. The filing fee for a survey is $41 for an 18 inches by 24 inches page. The additional $25 fee also applies to larger surveys, up to 24 inches by 36 inches.

If the plat or survey is for land located in unincorporated areas of Jackson County, the survey must contain a seal from the County's GIS tax pages; if for property in a city, it must contain the city's seal. Jackson County's Plat and Survey archives are now available on DVD and CD. You can learn more on the Platbook Archives page.

8. What do I do if my original recorded document is lost?

If you have lost or misplaced your original deed (or other legal document which has been recorded), you can obtain a certified copy from the Jackson County Recorder of Deeds. A certified copy has the legal validity of the original document.

The Jackson County Recorder of Deeds can provide certified copies of documents recorded here since the 1800s. Copies of all documents pertaining to the ownership of real estate located in Jackson County are available from this office. Learn more on the Lost Documents page.

Show All Answers

1. What are assessment and reassessment?

Assessment is the process of placing value on a property for the purpose of property taxation. Reassessment is an update of all real property assessments in the county, conducted by the county assessor to equalize values among taxpayers and to adjust values to current market conditions.

2. How often is property reassessed?

Real property is reassessed every odd-numbered year (2011, 2013, 2015, etc.) Personal property is assessed every year.

3. Why are my taxes higher than last year?

Taxes are based on the assessed value of your property and the tax rates of the local taxing entities where the property is located. Tax rates are set each year by local taxing entities within the limits allowed under the constitution and state law. There may have been a change to the tax rate for your city or school district. If you made an improvement on your property the assessed value could have been increased.

4. Where can I find out about real estate tax abatement programs?

The Business Assistance Center in Kansas City, City Hall or the City where your property is located. You can call City Hall at 816-513-1313.

5. How do I apply for an exemption for my property?

Contact the exemption unit at 816-881-3483 for Real Estate. They will send an application to the taxpayer.

Notice: Telephones are staffed during regular business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by Jackson County.

Show All Answers

1. What are assessment and reassessment?

Assessment is the process of placing value on property for the purpose of property taxation. Reassessment is an update of all real property assessments in the County, conducted by the County Assessment Department to equalize values among taxpayers and to adjust values to current market conditions.

2. How often is property reassessed?

Real property is reassessed every odd-numbered year (2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, etc.). Personal property is assessed every year.

3. Why does Jackson County reassesses real estate property every 2 years?

Missouri Law requires all real property to be reassessed every 2 years in odd-numbered years like 2015 and 2017. The Assessor must establish the fair market value of property as of January 1st of the reassessment year.

4. Why is reassessment necessary?

Under Missouri’s Constitution, all assessments for property tax purposes must be based upon market value and be uniform within the same class and subclass of property.
Over time, the value of property may change, depending upon its nature, location and other factors. Some values change more rapidly than others. Reassessment is the only way to be sure that each taxpayer is being taxed fairly, and that their property is taxed the same as other comparable property.

5. What is market value?

Market value, true value in money and appraised value have the same meaning under Missouri law. A simple definition of market value is the price the property would bring when offered for sale by a person who is willing but not obligated to sell it, and is bought by a person who is willing but not obligated to purchase it.

6. How is my assessment level established?

Once the estimate of market value has been determined, the Assessor calculates a percentage of that value to arrive at assessed value. The percentage is based on the classification, determined by the type of property or how it is used. View the percentages.

7. Will all property values change due to reassessment?

All values will not necessarily change and not all changes will be at the same rate. Market values increase more in some areas than in others. A major purpose of reassessment is to make sure that the new values reflect all changes that have occurred.

8. Will I be notified if there is an increase in my assessment?

The Assessor is required by state statutes to notify the owner of record of any increase in the valuation of real property.

9. How do I know what my house is worth?

Most people have a sense of the market values in their area from talking to friends and neighbors. You may also want to use the tax search capabilities on our website to review like properties and sales information, or get assistance from our taxpayer assistance unit.

10. How do you arrive at the land value?

Land value is based on a comparison of sales in the neighborhood or in similar areas.

11. What if I disagree with my assessment?

If you do not agree with your assessment, there are steps you can take in the review and appeal process. Remember that an assessment is based on current market value. Our objective is to establish the correct market value of the property. You should determine what you believe to be the value of your property and gather evidence that supports that value to present to the Assessment Department. Such evidence could include photographs, the recent sale of your property and/or a recent appraisal of your property. Please view your different options to appeal your assessment.

12. How should I prepare for my Informal Review?

You should determine what you believe to be the value of your property and gather evidence that supports that value to present to the Assessment Department. Such evidence could include photographs, the recent sale of your property and/or a recent appraisal of your property. Documents might include a recent appraisal, sale contract, closing statement, photos, estimate for repairs, a statement of construction cost (if recently built) and/or comparable sales (if recently bought/sold).

13. Can I appeal in a non-reassessment year?

Yes, you can file an appeal to the Board of Equalization. However, since reassessment happens every 2 years, the economic conditions as of January 1 of the reassessment year (previous odd-numbered year) apply to all appeals. That means; even if the real estate market went down after January 1 of the reassessment year, it may not have an impact on the value of your property.

14. Will political subdivisions lower their levies?

When the total assessed valuation in a political subdivision increases substantially, as often happens with a reassessment, the political subdivision is allowed an increase in revenues to account for inflation, plus the revenues it receives from taxing new construction and improvements. Its governing body, after that, is required by the constitution to adjust tax rates downward. This is called a tax rate rollback. Jackson County has such a mandatory rollback. Local governments such as school districts, cities and counties each set their own levies. Most are subject to the rollback. The main exception is the Kansas City School District, which was made exempt from the rollback by a state constitutional amendment. The exact impact upon your individual tax bill cannot be calculated until this fall when state and local governments set their levies.

15. How does reassessment affect my taxes?

It depends. An increase in assessed value does not necessarily equate to a corresponding increase in property taxes. Assessed value and the combined levies of the taxing entities which levy a tax on that particular property are used to calculate your tax. If levies increase, taxes may increase even if assessed values remain unchanged or decrease. It follows that, if levies decrease, an increase in assessed values may not cause an increase in taxes. One factor which can cause a decrease in levies is a rollback which was discussed in the previous question and answer. Another is a voluntary reduction voted by the governing body.
An estimate of your taxes will be included in your reassessment notice.

The final tax levies are normally set during August. The final taxes due for your property cannot be determined until the rates have been set by all of the local governments that tax your property.

16. The value of my property went down, but my taxes stayed the same or went up. Why?

The amount of taxes you pay is made up of 2 components: the assessed value of your property and the tax rates set by your individual taxing jurisdictions, such as schools and fire districts. The Assessment Department is required by law to establish the fair market value of property as of January one of the reassessment year (every odd-numbered year; 2015, 2017, 2019, etc.). Taxing jurisdictions set their own rates according to their budgetary needs and voter approval. If property values in their district go down, then taxing jurisdictions may choose to roll up their rates to make up for the loss in value. Jackson County only sets its own rate (which is about 7% of your total tax amount). Jackson County has no control over the tax rates of other taxing jurisdictions.

17. Why are my taxes higher than last year?

Taxes are based on the assessed value of your property and the tax rates of the local taxing jurisdictions where the property is located. Tax rates are set each year by local taxing jurisdictions within the limits allowed under the constitution and state law. There may have been a change to the tax rate for your city or school district. If you made an improvement on your property the assessed value may have been increased.

18. When will I receive my property tax bill?

Annual property tax bills are mailed each year by December 1.

19. When are my taxes due?

Learn about when your taxes are due on the County Assessor's webpage.

20. What if I do not receive a bill?

The Collector's Office mails tax bills during November. If a tax bill is not received by December 10, contact the Collector's Office at 816-881-3232. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the obligation to pay taxes and if delinquent, applicable interest, penalties and fees. Taxes not paid in full on or before December 31 will accrue interest, penalties and fees.

Telephones are staffed during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by Jackson County).

21. I just purchased this property. Why do I owe back taxes?

Taxes are a lien against the real estate and remains with the property, not the specific owner of that property. If the ownership changes, the new owner is liable for any unpaid real estate property taxes due.

22. Why do I owe the entire bill even though I only lived in the house for a few months?

Learn why on the County Assessor's webpage.

23. Why wasn’t my real estate bill sent to my mortgage company?

Review your contract to see if you are obligated to pay the taxes or if the mortgage company collects an escrow and pays the bill for you. If the mortgage company pays the bill for you from an escrow account, forward the bill to them. Each mortgage company submits an annual request to Jackson County for copies of the real estate bills that they plan to pay for that tax year. Due to the constant buying and selling of mortgages in today’s economy, sometimes the tax bill is sent to the wrong company.

24. What about my escrow account?

Mortgage companies typically pay tax bills in December and adjust your monthly payment for any changes needed. Call your mortgage company for specific answers.

25. What relief is there for senior citizens?

Information about the Property Tax Credit (Circuit Breaker) is available by calling 573-751-3505 or at the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

The Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program gives Jackson County seniors the option to spread payment of their County real estate tax bills over four equal installments - without interest or penalties applying. The installments are due December 31 of the tax year and then February 28, May 31 and August 31 of the following year. Missouri Department of Revenue Website

26. Where can I find information about real estate tax abatement programs?

Contact the Business Assistance Center in Kansas City, City Hall or the City where your property is located. More information is available.

27. How do I apply for an exemption for my property?

Contact the exemption unit at 816-881-3483 to request that an application be sent to the taxpayer.

28. Why do owners of commercial real property have a "Commercial Surcharge" on their tax bills?

Learn why owners of commercial real property have a "Commercial Surcharge" on their bills on the County Assessor's webpage.

Show All Answers

1. What was purchased from Union Pacific?

Jackson County purchased 17.7 miles of the Rock Island Railroad Corridor running from the Truman Sports Complex to southeastern Lee’s Summit for $50.1 million. Included in the purchase was the land itself, the value of having a contiguous corridor (immeasurable, difficult to assemble in any other way) and Union Pacific railroad rights on the corridor. The county purchased the corridor and rights in their entirety, meaning the corridor is still protected by federal laws as a railroad.

2. Who will manage the property?

The Jackson County Legislature has created and funded the Rock Island Railroad Corridor Authority (RIRCA) to manage the property. RIRCA will work in conjunction with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority to manage the property and plan for the future of the multimodal transportation corridor.

3. How will the purchase be paid for?

Government bonds were issued to pay for the purchase. Jackson County and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority will both be responsible for fifty percent of the bond repayment. Jackson County has allocated funds to pay the bonds, with no tax increase for residents.

4. What are the next steps along the corridor?

Survey work has already begun to allow the county to assess the full condition of the property. Once that assessment has been made, design work will commence. At the same time, the RIRCA expects to meet with local officials and residents to lay out plans for the corridor.

Corridor planning and design will focus on preservation of the national rail network corridor’s integrity, most notably the railroad corridor’s unencumbered continuity, and on multi-modal transportation options as the corridor remains available for freight service.

5. When will a path be started / completed?

The county expects to begin shared use path construction in 2017 to be completed by late 2018 or early 2019.

6. How much will construction cost?

Estimates for the shared use path are about $1 million per mile, or $18 million. Jackson County already has $10 million in federal funds set aside and a $2.5 million dollar local match.

7. Will the shared use path connect to the Katy Trail?

Yes, eventually. The Rock Island State Park connecting the Katy Trail from Windsor to Pleasant Hill opened in December of 2016. Between Pleasant Hill and the end of our corridor is an area called the Greenwood Connector, this is between 5 and 11 miles depending on the chosen route. Discussions and plans are underway with various partners on closing this gap.

8. What type of mass transit will follow?

Jackson County and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority will begin plans for some form of multi-modal transportation on the corridor. Various forms of mass transportation can be considered given the width of the corridor, and many options will be on the table.

9. When will mass transit be completed?

Multi-modal transportation options are still years off. Until a specific form is determined and costs are anticipated, and exact date is difficult to ascertain.

Show All Answers

1. What is the Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program?

The Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program allows eligible Senior citizens the option to pay the county real estate tax bill on their place of residence in 4 equal installments without the accrual of interest and penalty. The first installment must be paid on or before December 31st of the tax year. The subsequent installments must be paid on or before February 28, May 31 and August 31 respectively of the year following the tax year. The Quad Payment Program does not apply to the payment of non real estate taxes.

"Place of Residence" as used in this section shall mean the single assessed residential location within Jackson County where an eligible taxpayer actually resides.

2. How do I qualify for the Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program?

To qualify for the Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program:
- You must be 62 years of age or older by December 31 of the tax year
- You must live at the address which you desire to have covered by the quad installment payment option
- You (not a Trust) must own this real estate in fee simple, or as a co-tenant, by tenancy in the common, joint tenancy, or tenancy by the entirety
- All prior year taxes must be paid and not delinquent
- The property is assessed solely as residential property
- You must apply for the program and meet all requirements to remain in program

Exclusions: Real estate held in the name of a trusteeship and/or real estate which taxes are paid by a financial institution with the obligation to pay these taxes as a service from escrow accounts are not eligible for participation in the Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program.

3. How do I sign up?

If you meet the qualifications listed above, you may apply for the Senior Citizen Quad Payment program by providing proof of your age and your residency at the property for which the Quad Payment installment option is being sought. To apply, please print out the Senior Citizen Quad Payment Plan Application, complete this application requesting enrollment in the program and submit along with photo copies or scanned images of your driver’s license, state ID or other document(s) which confirm your age and address.

Submit application and proof of age and residence to:
Collections Department
415 E 12th Street
Suite 100
Kansas City, MO 64106

Email: SeniorApplication@Jacksongov.org

You can access the Senior Citizen Quad Payment Plan Application online (PDF).

4. Will I still receive a tax bill?

As long as a tax service company has not requested your bill to pay on your behalf as part of an escrow service, an annual bill will be mailed to you. Yet to be decided is whether this bill will include payment coupons to be used for the rest of your quad payments or whether the County will mail you a bill before each quad pay installment is due.

5. How do I make my quad installment payments?

Cash, Personal check, cashier's check, bank draft, money order, are accepted at the Collections Department Offices and by mail (except cash). Please do not send cash through the mail. One check may be written for multiple bills of personal property and real estate, if the total of the bills are added correctly. Mailed payments must be postmarked by the United States Postal Service no later than December 31. Payments postmarked after that date will be assessed interest and penalties.

Notice: The Jackson County Courthouse and the Jackson County Courthouse Annex are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by Jackson County.

On December 31, a drop box for property tax payments will be located at the west door of the Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City (415 E 12th Street) and at the front door of the Truman Courthouse in Independence (112 W Lexington Ave). Both drop boxes will close at midnight. Do not place cash in either drop box.

To review your account or print your Official Paid Tax Receipt, visit the Tax Payment page.

6. What happens if I miss or am late with my payment?

Failure to pay any installment in the time and manner provided shall cause a senior to be removed from the quad payment program and will result in interest and penalties being charged retroactively back to the first day of January of the year following the initial billing of the real estate taxes as if the senior had never been in the quad pay program and had simply paid late on their taxes.

Once removed from the quad pay program for failure to make a timely quad installment payment, a senior taxpayer may not be allowed to rejoin the quad pay plan for the purpose of completing the installments still due for the most recent tax year. However, any eligible senior will be allowed to rejoin the quad installment plan for future tax years after completing a new senior quad pay application as long as all prior year taxes are paid and not delinquent.

7. What is the Senior Citizen Property Tax Credit?

This is a program offered by the State of Missouri. Eligible Senior Citizens, or those with qualifying disabilities, may receive a rebate on their paid real estate taxes. For information, or to obtain a Property Tax Credit Claim form (form MO-PTC), contact the State of Missouri at:
Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 2800
Jefferson City, MO 65105-2800

8. Who is eligible for the State of Missouri Property Tax Credit?

You must meet the age or disability requirement:
- You or your spouse must be 65 or older, or
- Age 60 or older and receiving surviving spouse Social Security Benefits, or
- 100% disabled

You must meet the income requirement.

Show All Answers

1. When will I receive my tax bill?

You will receive your tax bill by December 1.

2. When are my taxes due?

Under state law taxes are due upon receipt of the tax bill but no later than December 31. Interest, penalties and fees will accrue if payment is late.

For payments made by mail to be on time, the U.S. postal service postmark date must be December 31 or earlier. To ensure your mailed payment is timely, contact the Post Office to determine the office hours for mail postmark. Payments placed in Post Office Mail drop boxes do not always receive the same day postmark. The collector’s office highly recommends mailing several days before the December 31 deadline. You can read more on our Tax Deadline Information page.

3. What if I do not receive a bill?

The Collector's Office mails tax bills during November. If a tax bill is not received by December 10th, contact the Collector's Office at 816-881-3232. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the obligation to pay taxes and if delinquent, applicable interest, penalties and fees. Taxes not paid in full on or before December 31 will accrue interest, penalties and fees.

Telephones are staffed during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by Jackson County).

4. I just purchased this property. Why do I owe back taxes?

Taxes are a lien against the real estate and remains with the property, not the specific owner of that property. When the ownership changes, the new owner is liable for any unpaid real estate property taxes due.

5. Why do I owe the entire bill even though I only lived in the house for a few months?

The new owner/buyer has the responsibility for paying the total tax bill by December 31.

Generally, taxes are prorated between the buyer and seller. If this is being done, a proportionate amount of the estimated tax amount is credited to the buyer at the time of sale based on the number of months/days the seller owned the property during the tax year. If the buyer receives extra money at closing or loan settlement, it is recommended the buyer verify if those funds are for the payment of future taxes.

Generally, no money is paid to the Collector for taxes at the time of sale. However, a closing company as part of the sales transaction may pay any taxes currently due if known. You will have real estate property taxes to pay each year you own the property.

Taxes are levied annually and due upon receipt. After December 31, interest, penalties and fees will apply.

A tax bill may be generated in the previous owner's (seller's) name and mailed to their mailing address unless the purchaser advises the Jackson County Assessor's office of the change in property ownership and mailing address. If you do not receive a real estate tax bill from the Jackson County Collector by December 10, contact the Collector's office.

6. Why wasn’t my real estate bill sent to my mortgage company?

Review your contract to see if you are obligated to pay the taxes or if the mortgage company collects an escrow and pays the bill for you. If the mortgage company pays the bill for you from an escrow account, forward the bill to them.

Each mortgage company submits an annual request to Jackson County for copies of the real estate bills that they plan to pay for that tax year. Due to the constant buying and selling of mortgages in today’s economy, sometimes the tax bill is sent to the wrong company.

7. What about my escrow account?

Mortgage companies typically pay tax bills in December and adjust your monthly payment for any changes needed. Call your mortgage company for specific answers.

8. What relief is there for senior citizens?

The Missouri Department of Revenue offers Missouri Seniors and 100% disabled individuals a Property Tax Credit (Circuit Breaker) program. Information is available by calling 573-751-3505 or visiting the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

9. What relief is there for senior citizens in Jackson County?

Jackson County offers Senior Citizens a Quad Payment Program. The Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program gives Jackson County seniors the option to spread payment of their County real estate tax bills over 4 equal installments - without interest or penalties. You can read more on the Program page.

10. Why do owners of commercial real property have a "Commercial Surcharge" on their tax bills?

At the election held on August 3, 1982, the voters of Missouri approved the amended provisions of section 6 of article X of the Missouri Constitution. The effective date for the amended provisions of section 6 of article X was January 1, 1985. You can read more on the Commercial Surcharge page.

Show All Answers

1. What are the fees for filing a UCC?

You can read more on the Recording Fees page.

2. Can I call in and do an UCC search over the telephone?

No. Jackson County ordinances specifically prohibit UCC searches over the telephone.

Show All Answers

1. What items do I take with me to renew my license plates?

You will need:
- Paid personal property tax receipt(s) or statement of non-assessment as requested by the Department of Revenue
- Motor vehicle inspection slip, if required
- Proof of insurance
- Title or renewal notice, if applicable

For more information, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

2. I am renewing 2-year license plates. Which years’ personal property tax receipts do I need?

If you were assessed and paid taxes in Jackson County for the prior 2 years, you need the prior 2 years’ receipts. If you were assessed in another Missouri County, you should contact that county for copies of that county’s receipts. If you cannot locate your Jackson County tax receipt for the appropriate year, to reprint your Official Paid Tax Receipt, visit the Property Search program.

3. I need to license a car not included on my paid tax receipt. What do I do?

If you bought your car after January one of last year, use last year's receipt. Property taxes are not owed on a vehicle new to you until you've owned it on January 1. If you owned the vehicle on January one of last year and it is not listed on your receipt, or is incorrect on your receipt or statement, please contact the Assessment Department.

4. I recently moved to Jackson County from another state and have never paid personal property tax in Missouri. What do I need to do?

New residents moving to the County from another state will need vehicle registrations from the previous 3 years through January one of the current year, and/or they can provide any combination of these documents showing an out-of-state address for the past 2 years through January 1:
- Bank statements (P.O. Box addresses will not be accepted)
- Utility bills (indicating "service at" address)
- Lease agreement or mortgage payment statement
- Credit card statement (P.O. Box addresses will not be accepted)

If you have questions, you will need to call 816-881-1330 or contact the Jackson County Assessment Department.

5. I recently moved to Jackson County from another county in Missouri. What do I need to do?

You will need these documents to license your vehicle:
- Copy of tax receipts or waiver from the county you are moving from for the past two years
- Title, vehicle registration or renewal
- Missouri Application for Title and Title (If a new purchase, the back of the title must be properly completed

It is important that you contact the Jackson County Assessment Department and let them know you are now a resident of Jackson County and need to be placed on the tax rolls. Contact the Assessment Department for more information.

6. I did not owe personal property taxes last year in Jackson County. How can I obtain my license plates?

The Motor Vehicle Bureau will accept a non-assessment form in place of a paid property tax receipt. This form states that you were neither assessed nor owe taxes in Jackson County. You may obtain a non-assessment form from the Assessment Department if:
- You are new to the state of Missouri
- You are licensing the first vehicle in your name
- And you do not have personal property tax obligation to any Missouri county

For additional information, contact the Assessment Department.

7. My leasing company pays my personal property taxes. What will I need to take to the license bureau?

You will need:
- Paid personal property tax receipt(s) listing the leased vehicle or statement of non-assessment as requested by the Department of Revenue
- Motor vehicle inspection slip, if required
- Proof of insurance
- Title or renewal notice, if applicable

For further information or updates, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website.