General Property Tax Information

Your annual property taxes are determined by multiplying the number of mills assessed, times each $1,000 increment of the assessment on your home (homes are assessed at one-half of their market value). Tax levy is based on the taxable value, not assessed value of your property. Taxes are billed twice each year on July 1st and on December 1st.

Summer Taxes are due on or before August 12. After this date, a 4% penalty is assessed. Postmarks are not accepted as a date of payment.

July 1st will be the larger of the tax bills as it includes the taxes for the City of Buchanan, Buchanan School District, Lake Michigan College, Berrien County Intermediate School District, State Education and Dial-a-Ride, and a portion of the County tax.

December 1st tax billing will include Berrien County (County General, 911 System, Law Enforcement, Senior Center), Buchanan District Library and SMCAS taxes.

Winter Taxes will be due on or before February 14. After this date a 3% penalty is assessed until the end of February. Postmarks are not accepted as a date of payment. March 1st, all taxes are to be paid to:

Berrien County Treasurer’s Office
701 Main Street
St. Joseph, MI 49085

269-983-7111, Extension 8569

Niles Admin Center: 269-684-5274

The City cannot collect delinquent taxes nor can we answer any delinquent tax questions. All delinquent tax inquiries will be forwarded to the County Treasurer’s Department.