Spring, summer, autumn, winter are only four of the seasons of the year. Some people look forward to hunting season, others wait for football season. The main season for County Treasurers is Tax Season. That's when every property owner in the state is required to pay real estate taxes to the county. Like the tax collectors in biblical times, county treasurers are responsible for collecting that tax money. Unlike those days, however, county taxes don't go to Rome, or even to Washington, the money stays in the county from which it is collected.
Technically tax season begins January 1st when taxes become due. However, treasurers begin preparations months in advance. Computation of taxes takes place in November, and in December statements are mailed out.
After March 1st unpaid taxes become delinquent and are subject to a penalty. Foreclosure on property takes place after five years. Treasurers are responsible for keeping track of all property taxes.
Tax season is a major responsibility, but it constitutes only a portion of a county treasurer's job. Treasurers also act as accountants, financial managers and investors.
Treasurers receive all money coming into the county, balance the accounts and give a daily statement of all receipts and disbursements to the auditor. Treasurers apportion, or give each county fund or government subdivision its portion, on a monthly basis. They provide information for lending and mortgage agencies, and for some audits. They make the best use of account funds by investing them wisely to receive the best rate of return. They also collect fees and fines for all county offices and are custodians of special funds.
Standard features of the county treasurer's office include a counter where citizens can conveniently take care of county business. Each one also has a vault where major ledgers, county tax rolls, and other valuable documents are kept safe from fire or theft.