Tax notices and municipal property assessments were recently mailed out to Lacombe County ratepayers.
With the potential for another Canada Post strike later this month, mail delivery to and from Lacombe County could be disrupted.
The county is hopeful that all property assessment and tax notices will be delivered before any disruption occurs.
Even if a postal strike were to occur, it is the responsibility of the resident to ensure they receive the information.
“We encourage ratepayers to be proactive and ensure they have received their assessment and tax notice from Lacombe County,” Director of Corporate Services at Lacombe County, Michael Minchin said.
“It is essential to review the notice promptly to verify the information and address any concerns in a timely manner.”
The deadline to pay taxes is August 31.
Property owners who don't pay their taxes by the deadline will face a 6 per cent penalty on all outstanding taxes owed starting September 1, even if the individual didn't receive an official tax notice.
An additional 10 per cent penalty will be added on December 1 for all unpaid taxes after November 30.
Key points to keep in mind regarding the county's assessment and tax notice are:
- Individuals wishing to appeal their assessment have 60 days from the notice of assessment date to do so
- The per-parcel fee will be charged for individuals filing complaints against assessments
- Fees will be refunded if the Assessment Review Board decides in favour of the complaint
- Don't procrastinate, there is a zero-tolerance policy for late payments
Tax payment options include:
- By mail to: Lacombe County, RR3, Lacombe, AB T4L 2N3
- In person at the County Office (40403 Range Rd 274, Lacombe County, AB) during office hours
- Deposited in the envelope mailbox located at the road entrance to the County office
- Through the bank. Payments can be made at most financial institutions through the internet or telephone banking
- Electronic funds transfer (EFT). This option is only for businesses. If businesses are interested in paying by EFT they should contact the Lacombe County office
- By credit card
- Sign up for the Tax Installment Payment Plan (TIPP)
“Like other online bill payments, there may be a processing delay for online tax payments. Therefore, individuals planning to pay their taxes through electronic banking should not leave it until the last minute," Minchin said.
“To avoid all penalties, Lacombe County must receive tax payments by the last business day in August.”
Timely tax payments are important for things to run smoothly, Minchin added.
"It is crucial for residents to fulfill their obligations and submit their payments by the specified deadline. We are here to assist and answer any questions related to property assessments and tax notices."
Lacombe County residents can expect to receive their 2025 tax notices in the coming weeks.
If individuals haven't received their notice by June 1, they should contact Lacome County's Assessment Department at 403-782-6601.
**The above due date and penalties DO NOT APPLY to ratepayers enrolled in the Tax Instalment Payment Plan (TIPP), which allows property taxes to be paid on a monthly basis instead of one single payment. Enrollment application forms are available at the Lacombe County Administration office or on the Lacombe County website.
