The Howard County Assessor’s office began mailing forms this week to property owners for listing personal property, which is subject to assessment for 2023.

Every owner or holder of personal property must report, on the form provided by the assessor, all taxable personal property that was owned or held by the person or business on January 1, 2023. Forms are due back by March 1.

“Every year, a few property owners forget to return their lists,” said Assessor Woody McCutcheon. “So we make every effort to remind people to return them on time.”

Anyone who fails to return a completed list to the assessor by the March 1 deadline is subject to a penalty, which can range from $15 to $105, depending upon the value of the property and the statutes provided to the assessor. McCutcheon reminds those late filers that his office has almost no discretion to waive the penalties.

Parents are reminded that teenagers purchasing and titling vehicles in their names for the first time must also submit completed forms. Anyone who purchased a vehicle during 2022 and did not receive an assessment list must call the Assessor’s Office as soon as possible at (660) 248-3400, Ext 1.

The Assessor advises the best way to remember to return the list on time and avoid a penalty is to fill out, sign, and put it in the mail the forms as quickly as possible. Property owners or lessees who have not received lists are not excused from filing and should contact the Assessor’s Office for a blank form.

The Assessor and staff invite taxpayers to call or come by the office on the second floor of the courthouse for assistance.