Janet O’Shaughnessey
Township Treasurer
The Treasurer’s Office is open on Monday and Thursday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Closed from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm for lunch.
Taxpayer Information and Important Reminders
Keeping track of your tax responsibilities is essential to ensure timely payments and avoid penalties. Below are important details regarding tax payments, deferments, and additional services provided by the township.
Taxpayer Responsibilities
It is the taxpayer’s responsibility to keep their address updated with the township. Not receiving a tax bill does not remove the obligation to pay. Additionally, ensure the parcel number on your bill matches the correct
legal description, as payments are applied per parcel number.
Payment Guidelines
Postmarks are not accepted as proof of payment date. To ensure proper credit, submit the bottom portion of the bill with your payment. The top portion serves as your receipt and should be kept for reference. If you require
a mailed receipt, include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your payment.
Summer Tax Roll
Summer taxes are levied on July 1st and due by 4:00 PM on September 12th, 2025. A 1% interest fee is applied monthly for late payments beginning September 15th. Tax deferments are available for qualified individuals, with applications due by September 15th. Deferred taxes must be paid by February 14th, 2026.
Winter Tax Roll
Winter taxes are levied on December 1st and are due by 4:00 PM on February 14th, 2025. Late payments will begin accruing interest after this date. The township will accept late payments until February 28th, 2025. After March 1st, 2025, all unpaid taxes are transferred to Hillsdale County, and payments must be submitted to the County Treasurer’s Office. Contact Stephenie Kyser at (517) 437-4700 for past-due tax inquiries.
100% PRE-Principal Residence Exemption
The 100% Principal Residence Exemption (formerly known as “homestead”) affects the season in which your school district collects its “School Operating Tax.” In Somerset Township, Hanover-Horton collects in the summer tax season, while Addison, North Adams/Jerome, and Columbia Central collect in the winter tax season. If applicable, your tax bill will read “Exempt” instead of listing an amount under the School Operating Tax millage.
Additional Services and Dog Licenses
Third-Party Tax Billing: Banks, mortgage companies, and servicers receive tax bills only upon request. Taxpayers still receive a copy marked “For Informational Use Only.” Duplicate payments will be refunded to the submitter of the additional payment.
Dog Licenses: Available after December 1st during regular public hours. A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required. Fees are $15 for male or female dogs and $10 for neutered/spayed dogs.
VIEW-PRINT-PAY PUBLIC RECORDS ONLINE
Assessing and Tax Information is updated daily.
Everyone is encouraged to utilize the 24/7 online tax service. For more information, please contact the Treasurer’s Office during regular public hours.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Treasurer manages the township’s financial matters, oversees tax collection, and keeps track of revenues and expenditures. Below are the key duties and responsibilities for this position, listed by their character count.
Must appoint a deputy
Ensures continuity of operations by naming a second-in-command.
Must post a surety bond
Secures financial coverage to protect the township from liability.
Disburses township checks
Issues payment for approved expenses.
Collects delinquent personal property tax
Pursues overdue taxes on items such as machinery or equipment.
Collects real and personal property taxes
Collects taxes on land, buildings, and other taxable assets.
Deposits township revenues in approved depositories
Safely places collected funds into authorized banks or institutions.
Invests township funds in approved investment vehicles
Allocates the township’s finances into permitted investment options.
Keeps an account of township receipts/revenues and expenditures
Maintains accurate records of all income and spending.
Responsible for jeopardy assessments in collecting delinquest personal property tax
Applies early or accelerated measures to recover overdue personal property taxes.
Collects mobile home specific tax
Gathers tax revenue on mobile homes within the township.
