Show All Answers

1. How do tax deductions work?

Tax deductions subtract a certain amount from the property's assessed value to arrive at the net assessed value. For example, let's say you own a home assessed at $180,000 and you qualify for the homestead deduction. Your standard homestead deduction is $45,000, and your supplemental deduction is $47,250. Without any deduction, the tax rate would be applied to the AV of $180,000. But with the homestead deduction, the tax bill is calculated based on a net AV of $87,750.

2. Who is eligible for the Homestead Deduction?

Owner-occupied homes on up to one acre are eligible for the homestead deduction. Taxpayers generally may receive only one homestead deduction, which is applied to their primary residence. This deduction consists of the standard homestead deduction (which, in most cases, totals $45,000 or 60% of the homestead assessed value) and the supplemental homestead deduction (which in most cases is calculated at 35% of the value after applying the standard homestead deduction). The Porter County Auditor's Office has a homestead compliance program designed to detect ineligible homestead deductions. Taxpayers who receive homestead deductions for which they are not eligible may be issued a corrected tax bill for the current tax year and are subject to up to three years of back tax payments and penalties, under Indiana law.

3. What is the deadline to apply?

In general, taxpayers must fill out, sign, and date the application form by December 31 in order for the deduction to be applied to the following year's tax bill. The completed form must be filed with the County Auditor's office by January 5. When applying, taxpayers should be prepared to provide proof of eligibility.

Once you apply for certain deductions, you generally do not need to re-apply as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. (However, in the case of a refinancing, a new application for the mortgage deduction is required).

If you no longer qualify for a deduction, you must notify the Auditor's office within 60 days to get the deduction removed. In the case of the homestead deduction, a property owner who changes the use of the homestead property and who fails to file a certified statement with the county auditor is liable for the amount of the deduction received plus a civil penalty of 10% of the additional taxes due.

4. How do I apply?

As noted above, we recommend that taxpayers come in-person to our office to apply. Our staff will assist taxpayers to ensure their application forms are in proper order and that there is no missing or incorrect information that could result in a delay or rejection of the deduction. Our office will provide the application forms. 

Taxpayers may also print out the application form (available on this page) and mail in their application. However, the application will not be processed if there is incomplete information or if the taxpayer does not provide proof of eligibility for each deduction. The type of verification depends on the deduction. For example, taxpayers applying for a homestead deduction may provide an updated government-issued ID with their current home address (most taxpayers provide an Indiana driver's license). For the Over-65 deduction, the taxpayer must provide a copy of their most recent tax return for us to review.

5. How many deductions are allowed?

Some deductions may be combined with others. Here is a general guide:

Homestead Deduction

May be combined with any other deduction.

Mortgage Deduction

May be combined with any other deduction.

Over 65 Deduction

May be combined ONLY with the Homestead Deduction, Mortgage Deduction and Over 65 Credit.

Blind or Disabled Deduction

May be combined with any other deduction EXCEPT for the Over 65 Deduction.

Totally Disabled Veteran Or Veteran At Least 62 With Disability Of 10% Or More

May be combined with any other deduction EXCEPT for the Over 65 Deduction.

Veteran With Service Connected Disability

May be combined with any other deduction EXCEPT for the Over 65 Deduction.

Show All Answers

1. Where can I get my water tested?

Jasper County Hospital, LaPorte County Health Department, Microbac Labs, and Utility Service Corp are local laboratories available to do water testing. Please see Indiana State Department of Health's Certified Water Labs for phone numbers and addresses.

In addition, the Indiana State Department of Health can also do water sampling. Please see their website for forms, kits, prices, and ordering information.

2. Can Porter County Health Department test my water?

No. PCHD does not have a certified water lab. All water samples must be taken to one of the certified water labs. Indiana's Certified Water Labs

3. Can I have my water tested for free?

No. All water sampling is fee based by the company doing the testing.

4. What should I have my water tested for?

There are a huge variety of tests available for drinking water. At a minimum, most residential water wells are tested for e.coli, total coliform, nitrate / nitrite, and lead.

5. I am building, buying or selling a home. Am I required to have my water tested?

No. Porter County Health Department does not require any water testing for new construction, existing or change of ownership homes. However, we do recommend testing, but it would be at the owner's expense. Some mortgage companies do require water testing. Please contact your mortgage lender to determine exactly what type of water testing they might require.

6. My water smells really bad. Should I have it tested?

Due to the mineral content surrounding aquifers, it is very difficult to determine what causes water odors. Testing for e.coli and total coliform would be recommended to ensure the absence of fecal bacteria within the water supply. However, this may not stop or determine the cause of the odor.

7. Should I chlorinate my well?

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) provides details concerning when and how to properly chlorinate a well. Directions and information for well chlorination.

8. I live in a town or city. Should I get my water tested?

Most homes or businesses located within town or city limits are connected to a drinking water utility. This type of water system falls under the jurisdiction of Indiana Department of Environmental Management and is regularly sampled. Complaints concerning water derived from water utilities should be directed to Indiana Department of Environmental Management Drinking Water Branch. IDEM Drinking Water Branch

9. Do I need a permit to drill a well?

Yes. They are $25 and the steps for obtaining one are located on our well and septic permits page.

10. I live in town and pay a water bill. Can I drill a well?

No. Because of cross contamination, you cannot have two sources of water in one facility or home. If you are in an area with a water utility or conservancy, then you must remain connected to their service. However, if you are interested in drilling a free standing well to be used for watering a garden or irrigating a lawn, then a well permit could be issued. Well & Septic Permits

11. How can I find my water well location?

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources maintains a water well location record database. Water Well Location Record Database

12. I live in the Town of Pines. Can you answer questions about my water?

The best and most current place to get information about water issues in the Town of Pines would be the US Environmental Protection Agency. US Environmental Protection Agency

Show All Answers

1. What are molds?

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. No one knows how many species of fungi exist but estimates range from tens of thousands to perhaps three hundred thousand or more. Molds grow best in warm, damp, and humid conditions, and spread and reproduce by making spores. Mold spores can survive harsh environmental conditions, such as dry conditions, that do not support normal mold growth.

Show All Answers

1. How is a tattoo done?

Permanent tattoos are made by using needles that are connected to a small machine with tubes containing dye which repeatedly pricks into the skin. Each needle puncture inserts tiny droplets of ink. The process, which may last several hours for a large tattoo, causes a small amount of bleeding.

2. How should you care for a tattoo?

The tattooist should provide you with detailed instructions on care for your tattoo to include:

• Cleaning with soap and water
• Applying moisturizer
• Avoiding sun exposure
• Not picking at scabs

3. What are some signs of an infection?

Your tattooist should tell you what to expect after getting a tattoo. Some swelling around the tattoo is normal. You should contact your health care provider if you have any of any of the following signs of infection:

• Any unusual swelling
• Continuous oozing or bleeding
• Red streaks or a hot sensation surrounding and moving away from the tattooed area
• Thick yellow or green drainage from the tattoo site
• Worsening pain

4. What are the risks of getting a tattoo?

While a tattoo may only take a few minutes to acquire, it is permanent. You should understand the risks and research the process before getting a tattoo. Tattooing involves breaking the skin, one of your body’s main protective barriers. This means you can be more susceptible to skin and blood infections.

5. What should I look for in a tattoo parlor?

In general cleanliness and a neat appearance are the best indicators of a reputable establishment, but there are a few more things you should look for when selecting an establishment.

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

Show All Answers

1. What is MS4?

MS4 stands for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System. It is a conveyance or system of conveyances that is:Designed or used to collect or convey stormwater
Owned by a state, city, town, village, or other public entity that discharges to waters of the U.S.

Not a combined sewer.

Not part of a publicly owned treatment works (sewage treatment plant).

Regulated conveyance systems include roads with drains, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, storm drains, piping, channels, ditches, tunnels, and conduits.

MS4 program, commonly known as Stormwater Phase II, is a federally mandated program through the Clean Water Act, which requires municipalities to take measures to reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff through MS4s in urbanized areas to protect waterways.

Show All Answers

1. Are there any collection methods your office has that are not available to private attorneys? If so, what are they?

Yes, we can:

• Intercept state and federal taxes
• Have liens placed on vehicles
• Attach Indiana unemployment income and Indiana lottery winnings
• Seek seizure of passports
• Refer delinquent payors to the credit bureau if they owe more than $1,000
• Seek suspension of driver's licenses or professional licenses
• Seize money from delinquent payors bank accounts

While attorneys may seek some of these remedies it is easier for our office to obtain results because we can do these things administratively (without going to court) and we automatically receive this type of information from the state.

Show All Answers

1. Why was there an increase in my taxes?

Action was taken in order to comply with federal mandate from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). IDEM designated Porter County as an MS4 entity which requires the county to comply with standards for clean water.

2. How will the money be spent?

How will the money be spent?
The money will be spent on many improvements, new builds and maintenance such as:
Capital Improvements including:
New infrastructure in older neighborhoods
New development infrastructure
Upgrades to existing infrastructure
Flood way improvements
Maintenance including:
Maintenance of existing storm system
Maintenance of future system
Upgrades to maintenance of all municipal infrastructure
Compliance including:
Storm Water Quality Management Plan
Long Term Control Plan
Education and Outreach to the public
Construction Site Erosion Control
Post Construction Development
Program Management

3. Why should I have to pay? I live out in the country and have no drainage problems.

You may not have any drainage problems, but the runoff from your property can contribute to the downstream flooding and water quality problems. A responsible approach recognizes that everyone contributes to runoff and that everyone shares in the results (better road drainage, cleaner water and reduced flooding). For example: there are about four pipes that cross under each mile of county road, and these need to be cleaned and sometimes replaced.

4. Doesn't the County already have funding in place for storm water issues?

Historically, money from the Highway Department has provided limited funding for storm water operations. However, these funds can be used only within road rights of way and are needed not only for drainage but for road maintenance such as resurfacing, pothole repair and snow and ice management.

5. Do residents of Valparaiso, Portage or other Cities & Towns within Porter County have to pay the county storm water fee?

While residents of incorporated areas do not pay the County storm water fee, Valparaiso, Portage & Chesterton do have their own fee.

6. What is Storm Water and why is Storm Water Management so important?

Storm water is rain, snow, sleet or ice melt flowing over land with all debris and pollutants picked up along the way. This water flows into a system of pipes, ponds and ditches that empty directly into our creeks, lakes and rivers. These systems require maintenance to prevent pollution and improve water quality. Storm water is not treated at a treatment plant so it is up to individuals to make sure the water depositing into the environment is clean.

7. What is Storm Water runoff?

Storm water runoff is water from rain or melting snow that runs off into receiving streams and lakes instead of seeping into the ground or evaporating. This runoff is not normally treated in any way before it enters lakes and streams. It does not go to a wastewater treatment plant.

8. What problems can runoff cause?

For water supply, communities must pay more to clean polluted water than clean water, and the treated water is not as pure as that coming from a clean water source. Treatment may not completely remove taste and odor problems if the source water is not clean. Property owners do not like muddy water or water containing trash or that has an odor draining onto their property. Polluted water also hurts the wildlife in creeks and lakes. Dirt from erosion covers fish habitats and fertilizer in runoff causes too much algae to grow. Soap in runoff hurts fish gills and skin.

9. Who oversees Storm Water Operations?

Storm water operations are overseen by the Storm Water Management Board and the Storm Water Advisory Board.

10. Are sanitary sewers and storm drains the same thing?

No. Storm drains collect and carry runoff from rainfall. Storm drains do not remove pollutants from runoff before it is discharged into receiving streams. Storm inlets are typically found in parking lots and near street curbs. Sanitary sewers collect wastewater from indoor plumbing, such as toilets, sinks, washing machines, and some floor drains, and take it to a wastewater treatment plant.

11. What is the clean water program?

Unincorporated Porter County is regulated under the Clean Water Act (CWA). That means we are required to have a program that addresses public awareness, public participation, illicit discharge detection and elimination, sediment and erosion control practices for construction sites, long term clean water practices such as ponds and rain gardens, and setting a good example with county projects.

12. How can I make a difference?

Landscaping

* Select native plants that require less water, fertilizer and pesticide.
* Mulch flower beds to reduce weeds and conserve water.
* Hand pull weeds.
* Plan pest-resistant species or species that attract beneficial insects.
* Compost lawn wastes instead of washing clipping or leaves down the storm drain (Where do I take compost?).
* Avoid putting lawn waste near ditches or creeks.
* Install practices such as rain gardens that filter runoff and promote infiltration. Permeable pavers can be used on top of open-graded stone to create driveways and sidewalks that allow rain to soak into the ground. Allow downspout water an opportunity to soak into the ground (at least a few feet away from foundation) instead of connecting it directly to a storm drain or street gutter.

Pesticides and Fertilizers

* Always follow the label for disposal (Solid Waste Management).
* Avoid overwatering after applications & watch the weather for rain, since most will be washed away
* After application, sweep driveways and sidewalks onto the yard where it can do its work
* Use natural fertilizers such as compost or bone meal
* Use slow release nitrogen fertilizer

Pet Waste

* Place waste in the trash
* If walking the pet, carry a plastic bag and pooper-scooper (be a good neighbor)

Automotive Maintenance

*Routinely check for leaks.
Examples:
Engine Repair
Coolant
Transmission
Brake fluid
* Use kitty litter; saw dust, or wood chips to soak up fluid spills. Be sure to sweep up and dispose properly.
* Recycle Used Motor Oil (Where do I take it?)
* Do not “top off” when fueling your car, truck, motorcycle or any other motorized vehicle.
* Use car wash to clean your vehicle or other motorized vehicles

Household Hazardous Waste

* Follow Label Directions. Use and dispose hazardous household material properly.
* Use the least hazardous products
* Unused household chemicals should be taken to Solid Waste Management for proper dispose.

Septic Systems

* Have your septic tank inspected every 3-5 years.
* Compost your kitchen garbage, not the garage disposal.
* Don’t pour household chemicals down the drain. This could disrupt the septic system’s treatment process and contaminate groundwater.

Show All Answers

1. What are the Due Dates for Paying My Taxes?

Spring - May 10th
Fall - November 10th
(unless that falls on a Saturday, Sunday or Holiday, then payments will be due the next business day)

2. Porter County tax payment options

You can make your tax payments by phone, mail, online, in person or on the phone! Find more information about these tax payment options HERE.

Click here

3. Can I send my tax bill to the return address on the envelope?

You should mail your payment along with your payment coupon to Porter County Treasurer, 155 Indiana Ave, Suite 209, Valparaiso IN 46383. To expedite processing of your payment, please do not staple, paper clip or fasten your check to the payment coupon. 

4. When is my tax bill considered late? How is penalty calculated?

All payments received by the Treasurer's office AFTER that installments due date are considered late UNLESS:

1 - Your properly addressed payment envelope CLEARLY displays a United States Post Mark dated on or prior to the due date
2 - Your properly addressed payment envelope has been deposited with a nationally recognized express parcel carrier on or prior to the due date

Penalty calculation instructions are printed on the front of your bill.

See IC 6-1.1-37-10 for full code on post mark and penalty calculation
Click here

5. How and to whom do I address penalties on my tax bill?

If an error was made in the posting of your tax payment please contact the
Treasurer's office (219) 465-3470

All other considerations must be made to the Auditor’s office (219) 465-3445

6. Why did my tax bill go up?

Many factors affect the final amount on your tax bill. You are mailed a TS-1A along with your tax bill. The TS-1A shows every category and every change that has occurred since the prior year's billing. REVIEW the information provided on your TS-1A BEFORE you call ANY County Office. This reduces your frustration of getting transferred from office to office. Each office can only answer to their particular function. Did your ASSESSMENT increase from last year and you need to know why? Call the Assessor's Office Did your DEDUCTIONS decrease and they should not have? Call the Auditor's Office Did a Fee increase from last year? If so, call the appropriate department who is charging the fee Did the tax rate change from last year? This is determined by the State. Learn more...

Tax Bills 101

7. How can I get a receipt when I mail in my Taxes?

When you mail your tax bill to the Porter County Treasurer, provide a self-addressed, stamped envelope and the Treasurer's Office will send you a receipt. Your cancelled check can be your receipt as well. Please expect 6-8 weeks for your returned receipt.

8. How do I change my mailing address for my tax bill?

Email request to: auditoraddress@porterco.org

9. If I overpaid my taxes, when and how can I receive a tax surplus refund?

Once settlement is complete (June & December), Surplus Claim Forms are mailed to taxpayers with instructions on how to claim the surplus.
Keep in mind that the Spring overpayments are applied towards the Fall amount due. Surplus Claim Forms are only mailed when the TOTAL taxes due for the year are over-paid.

10. What is necessary for a mobile home permit to transfer title or for moving the mobile home unit?

The original title plus the trailer dimensions must be brought into the Treasurer's Office. All taxes, current and past due, must be paid prior to obtaining the permit. Payments must be made by cash or money order for Mobile Home Permit. Porter County will also collect a $10.00 Mobile Home Transfer or Moving Permit Fee.

Mobile Home Permit – State Form 7878 completed by the County Treasurer then taken to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
BMV - Mobile Home Permit Link - State Form 7878

11. What property tax deductions/exemptions are available to me and where do I file for them?

Categories include Homestead Credit, Mortgage, Blind or Disabled, Over 65, Energy System, Disabled Veteran, Heritage Barn and possibly more. Please contact the Auditor's Office
(219) 465-3445
Auditor@porterco.org

12. How can I find my tax information online?

Account History with Balances are available on-line and are updated nightly. Please note that a payment made on-line will show on the payment site the day it is made. This payment takes a minimum of 2 days to post to our internal system. Because of this lag and the nightly update, it will then appear that the payment has not been made. Click here

13. What do I need for the Liquor License Clearance

Bring in your completed PROPERTY TAX CLEARANCE SCHEDULE - FORM NO.1
Your ATC Permit Number is required unless you are applying for a NEW License
RENEWALS: All taxes MUST be paid CURRENT.
TRANSFERS: All taxes must be paid through the ASSESSMENT DATE. Taxes are assessed the prior year so the total due this pay year must be collected for transfers.
Payments must be made with Cash, Cashiers Check or Money Order. Personal and Business Checks are NOT accepted. We cannot fax your permits as the original county embossed seal is required by Indiana ATC.
The form can be found at Click here

Show All Answers

1. How do I register to vote?

We offer a lot of options for registering. You can register in person, by mail, online or at one of our service centers. Register to Vote

2. Where do I go to vote?

Every registered voter has a specific polling location associated with their precinct. You can find your polling location on your voter acknowledgement letter, on our website, or at the state registration site. Find Your Polling Location

3. What are the acceptable forms of Photo Identifcation on Election Day?

There are several forms of acceptable I.D. - Indiana Driver's License or State I.D. , Passport, Military I.D., or an Indiana College or University. Photo I.D. must have a picture and expiration date.

4. I won't be able to vote on Election Day. What are my options?

As long as you are a registered voter, you are able to vote absentee. We offer absentee voting
by mail and in person. Please see our Absentee Page Vote Absentee

5. I would like to work the polls on Election Day. How do I go about that?

You can call our office to get more information - for a Republican Position please call 219-465-3594 and for a Democratic Position please call 219-465-3496. For more information please visit our poll worker information page.

Show All Answers

1. Can the Porter County Health Department recommend a septic system installer?

Yes, please see our list of registered septic system installers. List of registered septic system installers.

2. Can the Porter County Health Department recommend a septic tank pumper, soil scientist, surveyor, septic inspector or well driller?

We have lists of:

• Septic tank pumpers
• Soil scientists and there is a complete list hosted by Purdue
• Surveyors and Septic Designers

IOWPA Certified Septic Inspectors

Well drillers

Please contact us at 219-465-3525, option 5, for more information.

3. How are well drillers distinguished from one another?

They are distinguished first and foremost by their primary drilling service; some focus on domestic water supplies, while others focus on industrial or irrigation wells. More information.

4. How do I know if I need a septic repair permit?

A permit is required when any part of your septic system is replaced (laterals, tank, distribution box, etc). No permit is required to pump a septic tank or to investigate septic system problems. Septic contractors that insist permits are not required or ask to do repair work without contacting the Health Department are neither reputable nor recommended.

5. How do I know if I need a well permit?

All well installations require a permit. Even wells used for irrigation, gardening, or located within city limits require a permit.

6. What if I am tearing down or removing an existing home and building a new one?

While lot size will be “grandfathered”, a residential, new construction, well, and septic permit will be required.

7. What is the minimum lot size required for building a new home?

At least one acre of useable or buildable acreage is required to obtain a septic permit. Useable / buildable does not include easements, ponds, wetlands, hydric soils, disturbed areas, etc.