Tax bills going out on April 15

The Bartholomew County Courthouse figures prominently in the early part of the "It Began With Bartholomew" documentary. Mike Wolanin | The Republic

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Tax bills reflecting the spring and fall installments of Bartholomew County property taxes will be mailed out Thursday, April 15.  The spring installment must be paid no later than Monday, May 10.

But due to COVID-19, making payments has become a bit trickier over the past year.  During that time, county buildings and departments – including the office of county treasurer Barb Hackman – have remained closed to those who have not made an advance appointment, Hackman said.

While the buildings are tentatively expected to cautiously reopen on May 3, those wishing to make their spring installment prior to that date can do so by the following methods.

Mail – Send a check to the Bartholomew County Treasurer, P.O. Box 1986, Columbus, IN 47202.

Drop box – Payments may be made at any time at the drop box, located at the Government Office Building, 440 Third Street.  The drop box is next to the public entrance of the Bartholomew County Commissioners’ chambers, directly across Third St. from the Crump Theater

Banks – Local banks accepting spring installment payments prior to the due date include Centra Credit Union, First Financial Bank, Jackson County Bank, Horizon Bank and German American Bank.

Online banking or phone – Taxpayers can pay by e-check, credit or debit card by going online to bartholomew.in.gov.  Additional options added this year include the option of paying by PayPal or Venmo, a mobile application that allows users to make fast and direct money exchanges.

Pay by phone – This can be done by calling 833-398-6729 and using the Jurisdiction Code 2506.  A second number, 844-278-9126, can also be used.

But taxpayers are reminded a convenience fee will be assessed for all online and phone payments.

Tax bills are only sent out once a year for payment of both installments of your taxes.  The fall payment will be due Nov. 10.

While city and county offices will begin to reopen on or about May 3, those who walk into any government building will be strongly encouraged to continue wearing masks and practice social distancing.

Information: For more details, email Hackman’s office at [email protected] or phone 812-379-1530.