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1. Step 1. Click the "I Agree" button

2. Step 2. Enter your address or parcel number

3. Step 3. Click button labeled "CLICK FOR PROPERTY INFO"

4. Step 4. Click on the option "PROPERTY REQUESTS" tab and look at the "If You Disagree with Your Property Assessment" block

5. Step 5. Click on the box shown to proceed to the form to complete your Informal Review Request

6. Step 6. Fill out the Informal Review application and make sure to fill out any field with an *

7. Step 7. Under "Supporting Documentation" you may also add any photos (10 max) or documents (10 max) you want to include in your appeal

8. Step 8. At the bottom of the form, please make sure you select "I Agree" and then hit the "Submit" button to complete your appeal submission.

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1. Business Personal Property Auditor

Salary: $15.95/hour   Job Duties:  Audits the personal property records of over 24,000 businesses and adjusts the assessed value of the accounts accordingly; answers questions as related to business personal property.  Ensures every active account is assigned an assessed value.  Responsible for receiving and responding to taxpayer inquiries. Processes large amounts of paperwork in compliance with deadlines established by various Government entities and by the Director of Assessment. Minimum Qualifications: Must have a High School Diploma/GED. Must have experience in personal property appraisal, accounting, auditing or related fields. Must possess a valid Missouri Driver’s License. Must submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen test/background check.

2. Commercial Appraiser

Salary: $18.47 - $19.14/hour

Job Duties:

• Responsible for the independent appraisal of a wide variety of commercial, industrial, and multi-family properties in Jackson County. 
• Responsible for the valuation of agricultural and residential properties that are associated with commercial and/or industrial parcels using one or a combination of three appraisal methods: sales comparison, income, and cost approach. 
• Required to maintain the appropriate valuation and dates of change on tax abated and exempt properties

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have H.S. diploma/GED and three years experience in real property appraising with some experience in appraising commercial property or experience in a related field
• Associate’s degree in business or public administration or related field, and appraisal designation and completed basic appraisal courses with emphasis on commercial properties from national appraisal association preferred. 
• Must possess/maintain valid Missouri Driver’s License.
• Must take math exam.
• Must submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen/background check. 

3. Residential Appraiser

Salary: $17.59/hour

Job Duties:

• Responsible for making field and office appraisals of residential, agricultural, special purpose (condo’s, coop’s), and vacant properties. 
• Gathers, records, maintains and analyzes a variety of data such as zoning, selling and asking prices, income and building costs in order to make appraisals.
• Receives and investigates complaints about property assessments, makes reappraisals and submits recommendations at hearings. 
• Prepares and supports technical cases for the Board of equalization and State Tax Commission hearings. 
• Corrects and updates property file information

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School Diploma/GED. 
• Must have experience in Real Estate in one of the following fields: appraisal, construction, sales or experience with mass appraisal computer system. 
• Must possess a valid Missouri Drivers License
• Must take Mathematical exam
• Must submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen/background check.

4. Seasonal IPP Clerk

Salary: $12.50/hour

Job Duties: 

• Provides clerical support for the Assessment Department and is responsible for assisting taxpayers in person, by telephone, or from written correspondence, with all matters involving Individual Personal Property Assessment. 
• Responsible for processing paperwork in compliance with deadlines established by state statues, the courts, in accordance with office guidelines and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School diploma or GED. 
• Must submit to/pass pre-employment background and drug screen. BARGAINING UNIT POSITION.

5. Seasonal Appraiser

Salary: $13.40/hour

Job Duties: 

• Responsible for making field and office appraisals of residential, agricultural, special purpose (condo’s, coop’s), and vacant properties. 
• Gathers, records, maintains and analyzes a variety of data such as zoning, selling and asking prices, income and building costs in order to make appraisals. 
• Receives and investigates complaints about property assessments, makes reappraisals and submits recommendations at hearings. 
• Prepares and supports technical cases for the Board of equalization and State Tax Commission hearings. 
• Corrects and updates property file information.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School Diploma/GED. 
• Must have experience in Real Estate in one of the following fields: appraisal, construction, sales or experience with mass appraisal computer system. 
• Must possess a valid Missouri Drivers License. 
• Must take mathematical exam.
• Must submit to/pass post offer drug screen/background check. 

6. Senior Commercial Appraiser

Salary: $19.39/hour

Job Duties:

• Responsible for assisting the supervisor in training employees and in reviewing taxpayer and Assessment department appraisals for content and accuracy. 
• Appraises a wide variety of commercial properties ranging from small to large facilities, major commercial retail centers and large office complexes, using all or a combination of the three approaches to value (Sales, Cost, and Income Comparisons) in estimating market value

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration or related field is strongly preferred, have three years of commercial appraising experience; 
• Possess, or obtain within three to five years, Missouri State General Appraisal Certification.
• Possess/maintain valid Missouri Driver’s License. 
• Must submit to /pass pre-employment drug/background screen. 

7. Senior Residential Appraiser

Salary: $18.47/hour

Job Duties:

• Responsible for making field and office appraisals of more difficult and complex agricultural and residential, special purpose (condo’s, coop’s), and vacant properties. 
• Gathers, records, maintains and analyzes a variety of data such as zoning, asking and selling prices, income and building costs
• Receives and investigates complaints about property assessments, makes reappraisals and submits recommendations at hearings. 
• Prepares and supports technical cases for the Board of Equalization hearings and State Tax Commission hearings.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School Diploma/GED. 
• Must have successfully completed courses or their equivalent in IAAO Courses I, II, III and Appraisal Institute classes in 1A1/8-1 Real Estate Principles, 8-2 Residential Valuation or 1A2 Basic Valuation Procedures. 
• Must successfully complete the Standards of Professional Practice Course. 
• Certified by the State of Missouri as a Residential Real Estate Appraiser in one year preferred. 
• Must possess a valid Missouri Drivers License. Submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen. 

8. GIS Specialist l

Salary: $15.00/hour

Job Duties:

• Read, decipher and verify legal descriptions from recorded deeds; Research public and County records including plats, deeds, certificates, etc., utilizing resources, such as Ascend, Anthem and ArcMap to verify ownership of legal and equitable interests in real estate properties for land records management; Problem solve difficult or complex records by performing in-depth research using County tools and resources; Data entry of deeds (name changes, segregations, etc) into tax software.
• Maintain geospatial components of the real property tax base including parcels, lots, addresses, tax code areas and related features and perform geospatial analysis.
• Utilize ArcMap to view and research real property including location, ownership, abatements, property sales, and exemptions.
• Assist internal and external customers regarding Abstract inquiries.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School Diploma/GED. 
• Knowledge of County and Department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of laws and ordinances that affect relating to real property, delinquent land tax procedures, deeds and legal titles of real property.
• Knowledge of computer system operations sufficient to enter and retrieve data.
• Must possess a valid Missouri Drivers License. Submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen. 

9. GIS Specialist ll

Salary: $16.96/hour

Job Duties:

• Maintain geospatial components of the real property tax base including parcels, lots, addresses, tax code areas and related features and perform geospatial analysis.
• Read, decipher and verify legal descriptions from recorded deeds; Research public and County records including plats, deeds, certificates, etc., utilizing resources, such as Ascend, Anthem and ArcPRO to verify ownership of legal and equitable interests in real estate properties for land records management; Problem solve difficult or complex records by performing in­ depth research using County tools and resources; Data entry of deeds (name changes, segregations, etc.) into tax software.
• Work with GIS stakeholders such as County departments, municipal, regional, state and federal agencies to coordinate and implement County GIS activities.
• Utilize ArcPRO to view and research real property including location, ownership, abatements, property sales, and exemptions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School Diploma/GED. 
• Knowledge of County and Department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of theoretical and real-world applications of GIS including, but not limited to, cartography, geo-processing, modeling and analysis.
• Knowledge of geospatial data creation, editing, maintenance and metadata; data and relational database management; and server technologies.
• Knowledge of applicable state and county laws relating to real property, delinquent land tax procedures, and legal titles of real property.
• Knowledge of cadastral and appraisal practices, principles, and standards.
• Knowledge of trends in GIS programs and technologies.
• Knowledge of the ArcGIS Suite of products, including ArcPRO and ArcSDE.
• Knowledge of laws and ordinances that affect relating to real property, delinquent land tax procedures, deeds and legal titles of real property.
• Knowledge of computer system operations sufficient to enter and retrieve data.
• Knowledge of records management and research procedures.
• Knowledge of reading and deciphering legal descriptions.
• Skill in current GIS technologies including principles, practices, terminology and trends in GIS, spatial data, and related technologies.
• Skill in effective written and oral communication.
• Skill in the ability to collaborate with people and projects in a variety of settings, both within and outside the County.
• Skill in communicating GIS concepts and information to non-GIS individuals.
• Must possess a valid Missouri Drivers License. Submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen. 

10. Lister/Collector

Job Duties:

• Drive to and examine properties by walking around locations.
• Analyze and verify characteristics of properties for revaluation purposes
• Measure and take digital images of the exterior of buildings
• List and update property data

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have a High School Diploma/GED. 
• Ability to work outdoor in all weather conditions
• Strong math skills and attention to detail
• Good organization and problem solving
• Capacity to work independently, with team members and communicate with people
• Must possess a valid Missouri Drivers License. Submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen. 

11. Business Personal Property Supervisor

GENERAL PURPOSE

This position is responsible for planning, organizing, supervises and administering the work of the Business Personal Property Unit, the Business/Personal Property Exempt Property Unit and Leased Vehicles Unit of the Assessment Operations Section.  The position is responsible for establishing the correct valuation of business personal property accounts, exempt business personal property accounts, and leased vehicle accounts in Jackson County.  

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Develops, coordinates and implements the processes and procedures used to accomplish the work of the organization.
• Provides work direction, planning, scheduling, training, and supervision for assigned staff, tracks employee attendance, and completes performance evaluations.
• Formulates and issues instructions and procedures for new, non-routine or complex assignments and to implement new work procedures or methods; assigns work responsibilities to subordinate organizations and those individuals directly supervised.
• Answers inquiries from property owners regarding business personal property declarations, calculations, exemptions and leased vehicle assessments.
• Prepares reports in appropriate format and in a timely manner as request by supervisors. 
• Reviews reports on the work units accomplishments and spot checks the work of directly supervised employees.
• Answers questions regarding the work of the units and provides assistance with new or complex work assignments.
• Resolves the most complex technical work problems not covered by precedents.
• Coordinates delinquent account work with the County Counselor's office.
• Reviews Business Personal Property declarations listing the assessed valuations of business personal property.
• Identifies business assessments that appear to be error, reviews all information available about the business and similar firms.
• Visits business organizations operating within Jackson County in order to determine proper valuation for the business furniture, fixtures & equipment on which taxes are owed.
• Reviews the financial records of these firms.
• Redesigns the forms necessary to collect a variety of information on individual and business personal property and equipment based upon changing statutes or to collect information in more useful formats.
• Maintains and oversees all documents of the unit.
• Defends before the County Board of Equalization and the State Tax Commission, business appeals of appraisals.
• Reviews account revisions for Board of Equalization approval. 
• Oversees the preparation of narrative appraisal reports, reviews initial appraisal determinations and presents the rationale for the final appraisal figures.
• Analyzes organizational work requirements to determine the staff and other resources needed to accomplish work assignments.
• Provides higher authority with projected budgetary requirements.
• Reviews serious disciplinary cases (i.e. those involving suspensions or removals) initiated by the supervisor and reports the facts to higher level management.
• Reviews and approves/denies corrections to assessments, including interest and penalties, after certification for the year concerned.
• Requests new computer programs to be written to further assist in the accuracy of business personal property accounts.
• Performs various personnel administration functions such as daily attendance, employee interviews, evaluation, recommending promotions, raises and awards, approves leave, etc.
• Responsible for establishing the correct valuation of the business accounts, exempt business property accounts, and leased vehicles in Jackson County.
• Coordinates and approves supply orders for copy paper, office supplies and coffee products. 
• Takes course work as recommended.
• Tests updates to computer assisted mass appraisal software and updates.
• Maintains and updates training and personnel manuals.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university or an Associate’s Degree plus three years of experience.
• One (1) year of experience in personal property appraisals.
• Must possess/maintain valid Missouri Driver's License.
• Must submit to and pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of department and division organization to ensure appropriate work assignments and delegation.
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques in order to select the best application for a vacant position.
• Knowledge of Jackson County’s Personnel Rules, Polices and Procedures.
• Knowledge of supervisory techniques; employee training and evaluation, delegation of authority and progressive discipline.        
• Knowledge of preparation of tax statements, receipts, and clearances for personal property.
• Knowledge of functions and codes used in operating the unit’s computer terminals, office machines, and other devices and equipment. 
• Knowledge of maintenance of the computer tables used in the process of valuing business equipment and individual personal property.
• Knowledge of the various Jackson County Tax districts and their respective levies.
• Knowledge of procedures for computing and processing tax bills including the applicable interest and penalties, levy codes, and school district codes. 
• Knowledge of state assessment, collection and tax laws.
• Knowledge of the geographical boundaries of the county.
• Knowledge of refund procedures.
• Knowledge of the appeal procedures.
• Knowledge of management principles, practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
• Skill in computing tax statements.
• Skill in conflict identification and resolution.
• Skill in verbal and written communication.

 

 

 

 

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work environment is primarily indoors, within a modern smoke-free office setting, where noise and temperature levels are moderate. 
• Occasional travel to businesses within the County is required, exposing the associate to weather extremes, various forms of precipitation and the hazards associated with travel on public roads.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Climbing/Balancing – Must be able to balance one’s self sufficiently to maintain body equilibrium and prevent falling while moving up and down ladders, stairs, stools and the like, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Crawling - Must be able to move about on hands and knees or hands and feet, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Crouching/Kneeling – Must be able to crouch and/or kneel sufficiently to complete various assigned tasks.
• Grasping/Handling – Must be able to extend arm(s) and hand(s) in any direction sufficiently to pick up, hold, and/or otherwise work with an object, using one’s hands to complete assigned tasks.
• Hearing – Must be able to have normal conversations and two-way radio/telephone communications; must be able to receive detailed information through oral communication, and to make the discrimination in sound, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Lifting - Must be able to occasionally lift up to 10 pounds of equipment and supplies, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Mental Acuity - Must be able to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Pushing/Pulling – Must be able to sufficiently haul, tug and/or push objects weighing up to 10 pounds, using one’s arms, to complete assigned tasks
• Repetitive Motion - Must be able to repetitively move and/or motion using one’s wrists, hands, and/or fingers, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Sitting – 45-65% of the time – Must be able to sit for long periods of time to complete various assigned tasks.
• Speaking/Talking – Must be able to speak English clearly to convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately and concisely.
• Standing – 20-40% of the time – Must be able to stand while completing various assigned tasks. Particularly for sustained periods of time.
• Stooping – Must be able to sufficiently bend one’s body down and forward, requiring full motion of the lower extremities and back muscles, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Visual Acuity – Must be able to sufficiently to operate motor vehicles, heavy equipment, miscellaneous hand held tools, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Walking – 15% of the time – Must be able to walk between work stations and to wait on the general public.

12. Real Property Appraisal Supervisor

GENERAL PURPOSE

This position is responsible for the administration of all work concerning more than 300,000 real parcels and supervision of associates in the Real Property Unit; responsible for supervising the biennial ad valorem reassessment in compliance with Missouri law , USPAP and IAAO standards; prepares appraisals and defends appraisals, coordinates informal hearings which includes supervision of a phone bank, responding to questions and setting appointments, and defending appraisals appealed to the County Board of Equalization or State Tax Commission. The position is responsible for the valuation of all new real property construction, property splits and combines, and new plats; market studies to redefine neighborhoods and/or verify existing neighborhoods for the biennial reassessment process; maintains complete knowledge of department-used software packages; including, but not limited to CAMA, GIS and payroll.     

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Establishes long-range schedules, priorities and deadlines for regular and special work assignments.                                          
• Assigns, directs and reviews the work of associates; and reviews the results of the computer generated values.
• Develops and implements procedures necessary to accomplish the work of the department.
• Collects a variety of cost, sales, mortgage and other financial data through contacts with real estate appraisers, real estate firms, financial institutions, builders, developers, etc.
• Supervises preparation and entry of data to establish new neighborhoods.
• Assists and instructs subordinates on valuation theory and techniques in accordance with appraisal standards of practice and professional ethics.
• Utilizes mass appraisal, techniques, including CAMA model building, sales ratio reports, multiple regression analysis, etc.
• Develops and maintains production reports to monitor progress of assigned projects as well as individual performance.
• Supervises and assists in the training of associates.
• Provides instruction and supervises occupancy and natural disaster procedures for residential parcels.
• Supervises the preparation and mailing of all change in value notices.
• Supervises the completion and reviews any actions before the Board.
• Prepares monthly and annual reports for the Deputy Directors and the Director of Assessment.
• Researches ownership in the Records Department and issues property control maintenance forms for real estate in order to change or correct the owner’s names and addresses.
• Searches computer records, microfiche, deeds, plats, maps and permanent parcel files in order to determine ownership, property lines, easements and responsibility for payment.
• Accepts supply requests, orders office supplies and tracks maintenance on all office machines.
• Trains and retrains subordinates on a regular basis, including the most recent and accurate standards of data entry, filing, research and customer service. 
• Takes course work as recommended.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.
• Tests updates to computer assisted mass appraisal software and updates.
• Maintains and updates training and personnel manuals.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, in Business Administration, Public Administration or related field.
• Two (2) years of supervisory experience Assessment or related field.
• Must possess/maintain a Missouri State Certified Real Estate Appraiser’s license or an IAAO Equivalent; 
• Must possess/maintain valid Missouri Driver's License.
• Must submit to and pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of applicable State and County laws, codes, and procedures relating to property appraisals.
• Knowledge of mass appraisal techniques, fee appraisal techniques, including CAMA (Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal) model building, multiple regression analysis, sales ratio reports and other appropriate statistical tools.
• Knowledge of all real estate appraisal theories, principles, standards of practices, professional ethics and techniques; includes familiarity with Standards of Practice pursuant to IAAO and USPAP.
• Knowledge of standard reference sources providing real estate cost and market value information.
• Knowledge of realty principles, practices and types, and of conditions of ownership or lease holding.
• Knowledge of personnel management techniques required to organize and direct the work of an organization including supervising subordinate staff; and communicating necessary information and training to subordinate staff.
• Knowledge necessary to plan, manage, monitor and/or perform the biennial reassessment.
• Knowledge of and skill in presenting information before the Board of Equalization and the Missouri State Tax Commission, defending the County's valuation and assessment policies.
• Knowledge of the effects of social and economic trends on property values.
• Skill in appraising real estate using the Cost, Sales Comparison and Income (Capitalization) approaches to value.
• Skill in preparing comprehensive written appraisal reports that present appraisal conclusions and supporting data in a clear and concise manner.

 

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work environment is primarily indoors, within a modern smoke-free office setting, where noise and temperature levels are moderate. 
• Occasional travel to businesses within the County is required, exposing the associate to weather extremes, various forms of precipitation and the hazards associated with travel on public roads.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Climbing/Balancing – Must be able to balance one’s self sufficiently to maintain body equilibrium and prevent falling while moving up and down ladders, stairs, stools and the like, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Crawling - Must be able to move about on hands and knees or hands and feet, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Crouching/Kneeling – Must be able to crouch and/or kneel sufficiently to complete various assigned tasks.
• Grasping/Handling – Must be able to extend arm(s) and hand(s) in any direction sufficiently to pick up, hold, and/or otherwise work with an object, using one’s hands to complete assigned tasks.
• Hearing – Must be able to have normal conversations and two-way radio/telephone communications; must be able to receive detailed information through oral communication, and to make the discrimination in sound, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Lifting - Must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds of equipment and supplies, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Mental Acuity - Must be able to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Pushing/Pulling – Must be able to sufficiently haul, tug and/or push objects weighing up to 20 pounds, using one’s arms, to complete assigned tasks
• Repetitive Motion - Must be able to repetitively move and/or motion using one’s wrists, hands, and/or fingers, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Sitting – 45-60% of the time – Must be able to sit for long periods of time to complete various assigned tasks.
• Speaking/Talking – Must be able to speak English clearly to convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately and concisely.
• Standing – 20-40% of the time – Must be able to stand while completing various assigned tasks. Particularly for sustained periods of time.
• Stooping – Must be able to sufficiently bend one’s body down and forward, requiring full motion of the lower extremities and back muscles, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Visual Acuity – Must be able to sufficiently to operate motor vehicles, heavy equipment, miscellaneous hand held tools, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Walking – 15% of the time – Must be able to walk between work stations and to wait on the general public.

13. Customer Service Supervisor

GENERAL PURPOSE

This position is responsible for performing all administrative and supervisory tasks relevant to the work of the Customer Service Unit; maintaining applicable documentation of any and all changes to the files; supervising all personnel in the Unit, including part-time personnel on special projects assigned by the Director of Assessment; making daily work assignments, training associates and providing technical assistance. The associate assists property owners in person, by phone or correspondence with all matters involving real, business and personal property taxes. The associate is responsible for processing large amounts of paperwork in compliance with deadlines established by state statutes, the courts, and other county offices; looking up assessed value and taxes due and tax clearances; researching deeds, maps, plat books, tax rolls; and other duties as assigned.

   

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provides work direction, planning, scheduling, training, and supervision for assigned staff; and tracks employee attendance for payroll purposes and completes performance evaluations.
• Operates a CRT keyboard to access property records stored in the County’s CAMA (computer assisted mass appraisal) computer system. 
• Provides general explanation as to codes, descriptions, measurements and valuations which specify the characteristics and appraised value of the land and accompanying structures to property owners.
• Answers inquiries from property owners regarding legal descriptions, deeds, assessed valuations and tax information; calls up information on  CAMA and/or microfilm.
• Types correspondence upon request.   
• Prepares reports in an appropriate format and in a timely manner, as requested by the Department Director, Division Leaders and/or others.
• Maintains files for typed documents according to subject matter and follows up on Department correspondence with property owners.
• Oversees department’s permanent parcel files.
• Oversees and processes all returned mail from tax bills and notices.
• Answers inquiries for the Assessment Department.
• Mails documents and/or correspondence for unit staff.
• Maintains employee time and personnel records.
• Works with mortgage and title companies to obtain assessment information.
• Researches ownership in the Records Department and issues property control maintenance forms for real estate in order to change or correct the owner’s names and addresses.
• Searches computer records, microfiche, deeds, plats, maps and permanent parcel files in order to determine ownership, property lines, easements and responsibility for payment.
• Accepts supply requests, orders office supplies and tracks maintenance on all office machines.
• Trains and retrains subordinates on a regular basis, including the most recent and accurate standards of data entry, filing, research and customer service. 
• Takes course work as recommended.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.
• Tests updates to computer assisted mass appraisal software and updates.
• Maintains and updates training and personnel manuals.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university or an Associate’s Degree plus three years of experience.
• Four (4) years of supervisory experience or customer service experience
• Must pass the clerical examination.
• Must submit to and pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of Assessment office policies and procedures regarding real and personal property accounts.   
• Knowledge of how to research property owners’ records.
• Knowledge of codes and functions necessary to retrieve information from the computer systems at all locations including the downtown Kansas City Courthouse and Historic Truman Courthouse offices.
• Knowledge of business telephone etiquette.
• Knowledge of alphabetical and numerical filing systems and file development.
• Knowledge of verbal and written communication techniques.
• Knowledge of arithmetic operations necessary for computing tax bills.
• Knowledge of state laws regarding taxes and deadlines for different appeal filings.
• Knowledge of County Personnel policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of the geographic boundaries of Jackson County and the cities, school districts and other levy districts in the County.
• Knowledge of the Assessment appeal process.
• Knowledge of the various forms used for correcting and updating the tax rolls.
• Knowledge of the laws, forms and codes used in computing real estate and property taxes.
• Knowledge of the appropriate types of information and codes to be input into the County’s CAMA.
• Knowledge of the functions and operations of the County’s CAMA.
• Knowledge of the Board of Equalization and Review of assessment appeal procedures and deadlines.
• Knowledge of the Board of Equalization, State Tax Commission, Jackson County Ordinance 54 and review of assessment transactions forms and codes.
• Knowledge of tax abatements and exemptions.
• Knowledge of working with mortgage and title companies and obtaining sales from them.
• Knowledge of software and data entry procedures.
• Knowledge of County’s payroll systems.
• Knowledge of supervisory techniques: employee training and delegation of authority.
• Knowledge of modern management principles, practices and techniques such as motivating, delegating, planning, evaluating and organizing work.
• Skill in reading legal descriptions, deeds, maps and tax rolls.
• Skill in the use of a typewriter, 10-key calculator, CRT (for data entry), copy machine, microfiche copier, microfilm viewer and alphabetic and numerical filing.
• Skill in training techniques.
• Skill in proofreading and recognizing errors and inconsistencies in the material to be entered.
• Skill in proper allocation of time to complete assigned multidimensional tasks.
• Skill in conflict identification and resolution.
• Skill in verbal and written communication techniques for accurately conveying knowledge to or requesting information from others.

 

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work environment is primarily indoors, within a modern smoke-free office setting, where noise and temperature levels are moderate. 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Climbing/Balancing – Must be able to balance one’s self sufficiently to maintain body equilibrium and prevent falling while moving up and down ladders, stairs, stools and the like, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Crawling - Must be able to move about on hands and knees or hands and feet, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Crouching/Kneeling – Must be able to crouch and/or kneel sufficiently to complete various assigned tasks.
• Grasping/Handling – Must be able to extend arm(s) and hand(s) in any direction sufficiently to pick up, hold, and/or otherwise work with an object, using one’s hands to complete assigned tasks.
• Hearing – Must be able to have normal conversations and two-way radio/telephone communications; must be able to receive detailed information through oral communication, and to make the discrimination in sound, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Lifting - Must be able to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds of equipment and supplies, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Mental Acuity - Must be able to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Pushing/Pulling – Must be able to sufficiently haul, tug and/or push objects weighing up to 10 pounds, using one’s arms, to complete assigned tasks
• Repetitive Motion - Must be able to repetitively move and/or motion using one’s wrists, hands, and/or fingers, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Sitting – 45-65% of the time – Must be able to sit for long periods of time to complete various assigned tasks.
• Speaking/Talking – Must be able to speak English clearly to convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately and concisely.
• Standing – 20-40% of the time – Must be able to stand while completing various assigned tasks. Particularly for sustained periods of time.
• Stooping – Must be able to sufficiently bend one’s body down and forward, requiring full motion of the lower extremities and back muscles, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Visual Acuity – Must be able to sufficiently to operate motor vehicles, heavy equipment, miscellaneous hand held tools, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Walking – 15% of the time – Must be able to walk between work stations and to wait on the general public.

14. Individual Personal Property Supervisor

GENERAL PURPOSE

This position is responsible for providing work direction, planning, scheduling and supervision of all assigned full-time and seasonal staff; and annual maintenance and oversight of all individual Personal Property accounts. Offices are located in multiple County locations including Kansas City and Independence. The position is responsible for ensuring professional and efficient unit operation through training subordinate staff and by providing operational and administrative oversight. Additionally, the employee assists taxpayers in person, by telephone and through written correspondence; and researching tax roll information through various media. The position also ensures the proper preparation of tax statements, receipts and clearances for personal property. Responsible for testing updates to tax package for stability, consistency and reliability. Responsible for developing automated processes to replace manual processes. Oversees the processing of personal property refunds including approval and rejects.

   

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Provides work direction, planning, scheduling, training and supervision for assigned staff at multiple County locations (including but not limited to two County Courthouses and several offices throughout the County); conducts employee performance evaluations, recommends merit pay increases and promotions; initiates progressive discipline when necessary and appropriate; tracks employee attendance for payroll purposes.
• Interviews applicants for full-time and seasonal vacancies, prepares and conducts employee performance evaluations, recommends the best applicant to the Deputy Director of Assessment.
• Oversees the preparation of personal property tax clearances, receipts, adjustments, duplicates and additions.
• Oversees changes of name, address and personal property; ensures appropriate code changes are made into the County’s computer system; and updates and maintains appropriate operating policies and procedures to ensure accuracy of entries.
• Establishes work goals and priorities for the unit; establishes, maintains and updates computer and office operating procedures and incorporates appropriate changes when necessary to ensure the professional, effective and efficient operation of the unit.
• Manages data entry of all personal property declarations and other accounts into personal property computer files; receives special projects and/or work assignments from the Deputy Director and determines appropriate delegation when necessary.
• Assists lead staff and taxpayers directly with unique, unusual, escalated and/or difficult issues or problems requiring extensive technical knowledge or expertise to facilitate the resolution of the problem or issue.
• Provides periodic review of the work of assigned staff to determine the quantity and quality of work performed and to determine appropriate work distribution and assignments.
• Provides specific training to assigned staff on the methods and procedures for performing various tasks of their jobs; keeps assigned staff informed of changes in policy or procedures.
• Test updates to assessment software for stability, consistency and reliability.
• Updates Reference Manuals and Training Manuals annually and redesigns as needed.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, in Business Administration, or related field.
• Four (4) years of supervisory experience in accounting, collections, customer service or related field.
• Must submit to and pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
• Must pass the clerical exam.
• IAAO member and designation or certification.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of department and division organization to ensure appropriate work assignments and delegation.
• Knowledge of interviewing techniques in order to select the best applicant for a vacant position.
• Knowledge of the County’s Personnel rules, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of supervisory techniques: employee training and evaluation, delegation of authority, and progressive discipline.
• Knowledge of the preparation of tax statements, receipts, and clearances for personal property.
• Knowledge of the Board of Equalization, State Tax Commission, Jackson County Ordinance 54 and review of assessment transactions forms and codes.
• Knowledge of the functions and codes used in operating the unit’s computer terminals, office machines, and other media devices.
• Knowledge of the procedures for computing and processing tax bills including applicable interest and penalties, levy codes, and school district codes.
• Knowledge of state assessment, collection, and tax laws.
• Knowledge of the geographical boundaries of the County.
• Knowledge of the refund procedures for personal property.
• Knowledge of the location of reference information for the preparation of tax bills.
• Knowledge of Missouri Statues for personal property refunds.
• Knowledge of the procedures of the requirements for and posting of tax payments.
• Knowledge of and skill in operating personal computer system.
• Knowledge of the appeal procedures for the County’s Board of Equalization (BOE).
• Skill in computing tax statements.
• Skill in conflict identification and resolution.
• Skill in verbal and written communication.
• Take course work as recommended.

 

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work environment is primarily indoors, within a modern smoke-free office setting, where noise and temperature levels are moderate. 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Climbing/Balancing – Must be able to balance one’s self sufficiently to maintain body equilibrium and prevent falling while moving up and down ladders, stairs, stools and the like, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Crawling - Must be able to move about on hands and knees or hands and feet, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Crouching/Kneeling – Must be able to crouch and/or kneel sufficiently to complete various assigned tasks.
• Grasping/Handling – Must be able to extend arm(s) and hand(s) in any direction sufficiently to pick up, hold, and/or otherwise work with an object, using one’s hands to complete assigned tasks.
• Hearing – Must be able to have normal conversations and two-way radio/telephone communications; must be able to receive detailed information through oral communication, and to make the discrimination in sound, to complete various assigned tasks. 
• Lifting - Must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds of equipment and supplies, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Mental Acuity - Must be able to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Pushing/Pulling – Must be able to sufficiently haul, tug and/or push objects weighing up to 25 pounds, using one’s arms, to complete assigned tasks
• Repetitive Motion - Must be able to repetitively move and/or motion using one’s wrists, hands, and/or fingers, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Sitting – 50% of the time – Must be able to sit for long periods of time to complete various assigned tasks.
• Speaking/Talking – Must be able to speak English clearly to convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately and concisely.
• Standing – 20% of the time – Must be able to stand while completing various assigned tasks. Particularly for sustained periods of time.
• Stooping – Must be able to sufficiently bend one’s body down and forward, requiring full motion of the lower extremities and back muscles, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Visual Acuity – Must be able to sufficiently to operate motor vehicles, heavy equipment, miscellaneous hand held tools, to complete various assigned tasks.
• Walking – 30% of the time – Must be able to walk between work stations and to wait on the general public.

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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. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. If I purchased my property after the filing deadline; do I have any recourse to file an appeal with the Board?

Please contact the Missouri State Tax Commission https://stc.mo.gov

8. What documentation is needed when filing an appeal on newly purchased property?

Documents should consist of the following: deed, settlement/closing statement and a certified appraisal.

9. 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.

10. 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 call 573 751-1715 or visit the

Commission website.

11. 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.

12. 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 presented which may include the County Assessor’s recommendation of value.

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 August per Missouri Statutes unless extended by the Board.

14. 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. The Board will review the request and act at their discretion accordingly.

15. When do we receive the tax bills?

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

16. 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.

17. 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.

18. 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.

19. 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.

20. 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).

21. 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.

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

Contact Planning/Zoning where the property lies

23. 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

24. 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

25. 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.

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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.

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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.

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1. Purpose:

To provide symptom-based COVID 19 testing for residents of Jackson County. This is not a health fair.

2. Sites:

Sites will be selected by Truman Medical Centers and the Jackson County Health Department based on expected risk of COVID 19. Testing sites will be publicized and open to all residents of Jackson County MO.

3. Scheduling:

Patients experiencing symptoms should call 816-404-CARE to pre-register with TMC’s COVID 19 Navigators. Navigators will communicate pre-registered patients’ information to the testing sites.  

4. Format:

Patients who have symptoms will drive through the test site, and be tested as they remain in the car. Experienced testing staff will be provided by TMC Lakewood and will work from a mobile testing bus. Operational and directional signage will be provided. Bilingual staff will be available.

5. Tests and test Results:

15 to 20 tests per hour can be administered. Test results will be communicated to patients within 3 days, positive or negative. Patients will be provided with information about COVID 19, and provided access to the TMC patient portal.

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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.

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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.

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 Collection Department provides daily 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.

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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 regardless 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. You may also contact the Collector’s office online at: Collections@jacksongov.org to request to have your former mortgage company removed from your account and verify your mailing address so future tax bills will be sent to you.

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.

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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

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

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

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1. What are enforcement plans for those that do not comply with closing time? Masks?

Enforcement will be similar to that of other complaints. We will lead with letting the business know of the complaints we received and educate about corrective action. Subsequent follow up will entail the delivery of a notification of non-compliance and ultimately a ticket to the owner of the business if issues are not corrected.

2. Will businesses be required to report positive cases like the KC order?

The Jackson County Health Department encourages businesses to report multiple positive cases, but it is not required. Cases will be discovered through the normal case investigation process

3. Are schools still allowed to be open?

Yes! There are no changes to instruction, just impacts extracurriculars.

4. How are people with a medical exemption being handled?

Can still go in businesses that allow them to (or can be provided an accommodation). However, cannot enter gyms without mask.

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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.

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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.

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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  you may apply for a marriage license at

Historic Truman Courthouse

112 W Lexington

Suite 30

Independence, Missouri 64050

Phone: 816-881-4608

3. How do I apply for a marriage license?

A marriage application will need to be completed prior to issuance of your license. The application can be completed either:

• During your visit at our office, or to save you time
• On line, please click here.

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.

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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.

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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 (payable to Jackson County Collector), 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. More information on how to obtain a statement on non-assessment can be found here.

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?

You will need to create a personal property account. Please see the list of required documents here.

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 create a new Jackson County account. The required documents can be found here.  The personal property section can also be reached at asmttps@jacksongov.org or 816-881-1330

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 the

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.

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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 (2017, 2019, 2021, 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.

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1. How should I prepare for my Informal Review?

You should determine what you believe to be the value of your property and gather evidence to support that value. Present all such evidence to the Assessment Department through the online Informal Review application or through email after you’ve spoken to an Assessment Department representative at 816-881-4601. 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). As part of the initial Informal Review process you should be prepared to electronically transmit all such documents to the Assessment Department.
Please view

your different options to appeal your assessment.

2. 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.

3. How often is property reassessed?

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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. How do you arrive at the land value?

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

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. 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.

15. 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.

16. 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.

17. When will I receive my property tax bill?

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

18. When are my taxes due?

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

19. 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).

20. 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.

21. 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.

22. 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.

23. 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.

24. 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

25. 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.

26. 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.

27. 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.

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1. Are masks required for all exercise in gyms now?

Yes. If someone has an exemption, they still cannot exercise in gyms.

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1. How are mask requirements going to be enforced at restaurants/bars?

Environmental Health will continue enforcing this.

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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.

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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 Historic Truman Courthouse 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.

You can also pay your quad installment payments through Jackson County's online system here.

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.

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1. How does this apply to school sports? Events that have already been approved?

Masks should be worn to the greatest extent possible during sporting activities. It is recommended that youth athletes wear masks, but not required. If you are unable to wear a mask because of difficulty breathing during high intensity activities, choose an outdoor location with greater ventilation and air exchange and where social distancing from others can be guaranteed. Participants may consult with their primary care provider to determine if vigorous activity while wearing a mask is safe for them. 

2. Does this new order that says people have to stay in their seats means they cannot get up and play pool? I mean they are more socially distanced at a pool table than anywhere else.

“Indoor patrons must be seated, and masked at all times except when actively eating or drinking.” If they play pool, they’ll need to be socially distanced, masked, and items need to be cleaned between patrons.

3. Youth Sporting Events – What are the social distancing guidelines i.e. Wrestling? Basketball? Etc.? Is there a recommendation on how many people we can allow on an indoor event?

Masks are required for everyone 5 years and above. If an athlete is actively playing in a sport they are exempt from wearing a mask. Masks should be worn to the greatest extent possible during sporting activities. Masks are required for athletes not actively participating in the sport i.e. part of the team but on the bench.

4. Should masks be worn by players who are actively playing a sport that require using a mouth guard or helmet?

A mask should not be worn when actively playing a sport that requires using mouth guards or helmets. The CDC says “Wearing a mask with these types of protective equipment is not safe if it makes it hard to breathe.”

5. Adult Mask Wearing During Recreational Sports

While participating in physical activity and/or sports where social distancing is not possible, adults need to be wearing masks to the greatest extent possible. Mask wearing may not be possible when individuals are wearing mouth guards or helmets during competition. Adult athletes should consult with their physician prior to intense physical activity while wearing a face covering.

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1. Is this mandatory or is it just guidance?

It is mandatory. You are required to comply, and it is a misdemeanor crime not to follow the order (although the intent is not for anyone to get into trouble).

It is critical for everyone to follow the Order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors and the whole community. 

All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the exemptions that are specified in the Order.

2. What happens if I don't comply with this order?

We are focused on voluntary compliance. Community has been tremendous in doing so thus far.

The Health Director, working in coordination with Environmental Health and the County Sheriff’s office has the authority to protect the community and make decisions regarding individual restaurants, establishments, and businesses. To report a restaurant, establishment, or business that you feel is not in compliance with the recent order please contact us:

Jackson County Health Department Hotline: 816-404-9883
Email Us: COVID19@tmcmed.org
Online Form: https://form.jotform.com/200574798421056

Questions for Jackson County e-mail : Coronavirusinfo@jacksongov.org

3. I own a business, what am I supposed to do?

Both essential and non-essential businesses that are frequented by the public may now open at full capacity. This is only permissible as long as adequate social distancing (six feet) and masking can be maintained. If social distancing cannot be maintained due to facility layout, the occupancy limit should be reduced.

4. Is there relief for small business?

There is effort on the federal level to grant relief to small businesses. https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/6201/text

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1. When will I receive my tax bill?

Tax bills will be mailed between Veteran’s Day and Thanksgiving.  Bills should be received 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. If mailing on the final day, contact the Post Office to determine the office hours for mail postmark to ensure your mailed payment is timely made. Payments placed in Post Office mail drop boxes do not always receive the same day postmark. The Department of Collection highly recommends mailing several days before the December 31 deadline. For questions related to pending BOE appeals, see more information below.

3. What if I do not receive a bill?

The Department of Collection mails tax bills during November.  If a tax bill is not received by December 10th, contact the Collector's Office at 816-881-3232 or check your account online.  You can check the amount due and pay the bill at any time online at payments.jacksongov.org. 

Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the obligation to pay taxes.  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. To whom do I make checks payable?

Make any check or money order payable to: Jackson County Collector and include your PROPERTY ACCOUNT NUMBER on the document. If mailing, please include the remittance. To be timely paid, all payments must be USPS postmarked by December 31.  

5. What hours are you open?

The Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City and the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence are open 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays observed by Jackson County. Visit www.jacksongov.org/collections for a list of holidays observed by Jackson County.

For your convenience, the Historic Truman Courthouse on the Independence Square will be open on Saturdays, December 14^th, 21^st, and 28^th, from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. (noon). 

On Saturday, December 28, 2019 through Tuesday, December 31, 2019  a drop box for property tax payments will be located at the west door of the Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City (415 E. 12^th St.) and at the south door of the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence (112 W. Lexington). Both drop boxes will close at midnight on December 31, 2019. Do not place cash in either drop box.

6. If I am paying in person, what do I need to bring?

Please bring the entire bill and your form of payment.  If you do not have your bill, a bill can be printed for you, but this does create some additional wait time.

7. How do I get a copy of my receipt?

Online:  You can find your receipt through the dashboard on your PayIt app. You can also find it by going to www.jacksongov.org/collection and clicking on “find property tax receipt” in the blue box on the left hand side. 

Mail:  If you mailed in a payment, your receipt will be mailed to you after the first of the year. Your receipt will also be available online via the directions listed above as soon as the payment is received and entered. Entry of mailed payments takes longer near the end of the year.

In person:  Any time throughout the year you can get a duplicate copy of your receipt by coming in person. The cost for a duplicate receipt is $1. The use of online receipts is highly encouraged during the end of the year due to the significant wait time.

8. 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 property ownership changes, the new owner is liable for any unpaid real estate property taxes due.

9. 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.

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.

10. 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. The Department of Collection bills the mortgage companies based on what accounts they request. Due to the constant buying and selling of mortgages in today’s economy, sometimes the tax bill is sent to the wrong company.

11. 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.

12. 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 at www.jacksongov.org/Collection.

13. I filed an appeal to reduce the value of my home and have not had my hearing. What are my options?

The amount stated on your bill is due in full on or before December 31. However, if you have an appeal resolved prior to the end of the year and your value is reduced, we can recalculate the account and generate a new bill as soon as the Board of Equalization and Department of Assessment enter your corrected value. That new amount can be paid online if paid by December 31, by mail, or in person.

If you have an appeal resolved after the beginning of the year and your value is reduced, then the amount on your current bill is due on December 31 and a refund of any excess payment will be issued. You do not need to pay under protest to receive a refund based on a value change. We do accept partial payments on real property, but interest, penalties, and fees will accrue on any unpaid amount due if not paid on or before December 31. Partial payments cannot be made online.

14. I requested an informal review by the Assessment Department and agreed to a stipulated value, but that new value isn’t reflected on my bill, what should I do?

If a stipulated agreement was not received by the Assessment Department prior to the generation of bills in October, the bill will not reflect that agreement. As soon as the Assessment Department receives the stipulation and changes the value in our tax software, the Department of Collection will generate a new bill and mail it to you. Once a new bill is generated, it can be paid online if paid by December 31, in person, or by mail. If you do not provide the stipulated agreement to the Assessment Department until after the end of the year, then the full amount due on the initial bill will still be required and a refund will be generated.

15. Will I be liable for the interest, penalties, and fees if I wait to pay my taxes until my appeal is complete and that is after the first of the year? Does this change if I am successful in my appeal?

State statute requires that all taxes due be paid on or before December 31. If the taxes due on December 31 are not paid in full, you will be subject to interest, penalties, and fees on any amount not paid by that date. 

Any taxpayer who prevails on an appeal of value, but has not made any tax payment for the year in question, will still be responsible for interest, penalties, and fees, but only based on the amount of the property valuation determined by the appeal, and not based on the county’s original valuation.

16. Can the County provide any relief to tax payers with pending appeals in regards to fees and penalties for not paying their taxes by 12/31?

State law requires tax bills be paid by 12/31. If full payment is not made by the due date, interest, penalties, and fees will apply until full payment is made. Any taxpayer who prevails on an appeal of value, but has not made a full tax payment for the year in question, will still be responsible for interest, penalties, and fees, but only based on the amount of the property valuation determined by the appeal, and not based on the county’s original valuation.

17. If a tax payer still has a pending appeal that is not resolved by December 31 but they cannot afford to pay the full amount, can they pay what they owed last year, or any lesser amount?

We do accept partial payment on real property taxes. This will limit the amount of interest, penalties, and fees owed. However, interest, penalties, and fees will still be owed on any difference between what is paid and what is later owed based on whatever value results from an appeal of value. It is also possible that a taxpayer would be entitled to a refund if the partial payment made is higher than the taxes due after the determination of value resulting from an appeal. Partial payments cannot be made online.

18. If I pay the amount stated on the bill and my value is reduced, what do I need to do to get a refund?

Refunds are automatically generated as a result of a value reduction. No steps need to be taken by a taxpayer to receive a refund based on a value reduction related to an informal review, BOE appeal, or STC appeal. If your bill is paid by a mortgage company, any refund amount would be returned to the mortgage company.

19. Do I need to pay under protest to get a refund?

You do not need to pay under protest to receive a refund based on a value change. The refund

process occurs automatically. Should you choose to pay under protest, the refund can only be

generated during our release of protested funds which occurs every other month. Payments can

only be made under protest if they are made on-time and paid in full.

20. Do I need to pay under protest to preserve my right to appeal to the BOE or the STC?

No. Paying under protest has no impact on a taxpayer’s right to appeal to the BOE or the STC.

21. I work for a mortgage company and the taxpayer has asked that we pay their payment under protest. What should I do?

You do not need to pay under protest to receive a refund based on a value change. When a mortgaged account has a reduction in value, the mortgage company will receive a second reconciliation file notifying the mortgage company of the reduction in taxes. The refund process occurs automatically. The refund will be issued to the mortgage company that paid the account. Should the taxpayer still choose to pay under protest, you will need to do so in accordance with Missouri Statute 139.031 (see below).

22. My taxes are paid by a mortgage company and I would like to pay under protest. What should I do?

You do not need to pay under protest to receive a refund based on a value change. The refund process occurs automatically. Should you choose to pay under protest, the refund of protested payments can only be generated during our release of protested funds which occurs every other month. Payments can only be made under protest if they are made on-time and paid in full. 

Should you still choose to pay under protest and if your taxes are paid by a mortgage company, please coordinate with your mortgage company to have them properly pay under protest in accordance with Missouri Statute 139.031 (see below). Should your mortgage company be unable to pay under protest, or refuse to do so, you can submit a proper protest to the Department of Collection so long as it is received prior to the payment being made. Any resulting refund would be paid to the mortgage company that paid the taxes. 

23. How do I pay under protest?

Payments under protest must be made in accordance with Missouri Statute 139.031. The language of the statute states, in part:

Any such taxpayer desiring to pay any current taxes under protest or while paying taxes based upon a disputed assessment shall, at the time of paying such taxes, make full payment of the current tax bill before the delinquency date and file with the collector a written statement setting forth the grounds on which the protest is based. The statement shall include the true value in money claimed by the taxpayer if disputed.

Please refer to the full language of the statute for additional requirements and information. The full language of the statute can be found at https://revisor.mo.gov. 

Please send payments under protest, with the corresponding bill remittance, and the corresponding letter to the address below:

Jackson County Department of Collection

Attention: Protest      

415 E. 12^th Street, Suite 100

Kansas City, MO 64106

24. 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 at https://dor.mo.gov/personal/ptc/.

25. 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 our website at www.jacksongov.org/Collection. 

The following qualifications are required:

• The program only applies to real property taxes
• You must be 62 or older by December 31 of the tax year.
• You must live at the address which you desire to have covered by the installment option.
• You (not a trust) must own this real estate in fee simple or as a co-tenant, by tenancy in common, joint tenancy or tenancy by entirety.
• All prior year taxes must be paid and not be delinquent.
• The property is assessed solely as a residential property.
• You must apply for the program and meet all requirements to remain in the program.
• Real estate taxes paid by a mortgage company are not eligible.

26. How do I contact the PayIt Support Team?

If you have questions, concerns, or feedback to share, please get in touch! Please send an email to support@payitgov.com, or call at 800-268-9153.

27. Do I have to create an account?

You do not have to create an account to pay online using PayIt. To proceed without creating an account, click “continue as guest”. The benefit of creating an account is that by signing up and creating a profile, PayIt is able to pre-populate form fields and expedite the payment process on your next visit.

28. What if I can’t find my property online?

If you can’t find the property using the name or address search, we recommend searching using the parcel or account number which can be found on your bill. If that doesn’t work, or if you need your account number, please contact Taxpayer Services at 816-881-3232.

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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.

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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?

You will need to create a personal property account. Please see the list of required documents here.

5. 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 create a new Jackson County account. The required documents can be found here. The personal property section can also be reached at ipp@jacksongov.org or 816-881-1330

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. More information on how to obtain a statement on non-assessment can be found here.

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.

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1. Can patrons be served at the bar with proper social distancing? We currently are using wide plexiglass shields at all bars.

Restaurants, taverns, and all other venues serving food and drink indoors may now resume normal hours. Indoor patrons must be seated and masked at all times except when actively eating or drinking. For event space gatherings, both indoor and outdoor, attendees shall maintain proper social distancing and wear masks when not eating or drinking.

2. What is the maximum occupancy % for an outdoor rooftop ceremony? Our rooftop occupancy is normally 300.

Gatherings including weddings may resume as normal but must maintain social distancing and masking guidelines. Indoor patrons must be seated and masked at all times except when actively eating or drinking. For event space gatherings, both indoor and outdoor, attendees shall maintain proper social distancing and wear masks when not eating or drinking.

3. Can dancing occur in specific family groups?

We understand that dancing probably will occur, but we wouldn’t encourage it. Need to wear masks and social distance from other households.

4. Are 72" tables limited to 8 people per?

Now changed to 10 people. This is for all table sizes.

5. Are we still using 50% occupancy if we have adequate social distancing?

Gatherings including weddings may resume as normal but must maintain social distancing and masking guidelines. 

6. If weddings are the same do we need to send in approval documentation everytime?

No. Gatherings including weddings may resume as normal but must maintain social distancing and masking guidelines. Indoor patrons must be seated and masked at all times except when actively eating or drinking. For event space gatherings, both indoor and outdoor, attendees shall maintain proper social distancing and wear masks when not eating or drinking.