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1. How do I calculate my real estate tax?

The total amount in real estate taxes you pay is based on the assessed value of the taxable real estate you own and the tax millage rate applied to the property by the County, Township and School District. To calculate your tax, divide the assessed value of land and buildings by 1000 and multiply this number by the millage rate. For example, assuming a residential home in the Township has a property with an assessed value of $215,500. Divide this assessed value by 1000, which equates to $215.50. Multiply this figure by the millage rate to determine your the real estate tax. In this example, the Township's Property Tax rate for the year 2011 is 2.66 mills which includes the General Purpose Tax rate (2.23 mills) for government services and the Fire Protection Services tax rate (0.43 mills). Based on the formula above, the annual real estate tax due to the Township at 2.66 mills equals $573.23. (or 215.50 x 2.66).

(NOTE: The County, School District and Township each set their own millage rates for services, which will need to be calculated in the same manner separately to determine your total tax obligation.)

2. What do I do when I get my real estate tax bill?

The County and Township each assess taxes on real estate, which are combined on one bill and collected on a calendar year basis. Each property owner is mailed a county and municipal tax bill by March 1st of each year. If your taxes are in escrow with your mortgage company or bank, it is your responsibility to forward a copy to them for payment. If you do not receive a bill, it is also your responsibility to contact the Tax Office, at 717/569-6408, extension 1103, to receive a copy of your bill.

3. What should I do about my tax bills if I change my address?

If there is an address change, please call the Lancaster County Assessment Office at 717-299-8381.

4. What do I do if I wish to challenge my tax assessment?

If you have a question or concern about your assessment or wish to challenge the assessment, please call the Lancaster County Assessment Office at 717-299-8381..

5. Can I get a receipt when my taxes are paid?

Yes. If a receipt is desired, you must send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Township Treasurer when making payment.

6. What is used to determine whether I paid my taxes on time?

The postmark on envelopes will be used for determining the date of payment. In fairness to those who make the effort to get their payment in on time, any late postmarks will not be accepted.

7. Where can I find Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau tax forms?

These forms are available by contacting the Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau directly. The forms can be downloaded from their web site at www.lctcb.org. The LCTCB is located at 1845 William Penn Way, Lancaster, PA 17602. Telephone: 717/569-4521.

8. What is the real estate transfer tax?

All property transferred is taxed under the real estate transfer tax. All real estate transfers within Manheim Township is subject to a 2% tax on the value transferred. The Commonwealth of PA receives 1%. The Township and School District share 1%. Transfer taxes are collected by the Lancaster County Recorder of Deeds Office, 50 North Duke Street, PO Box 83480, Lancaster, PA 17608-3480. Telephone: 717/299-8238.

9. What is the earned income tax?

Earned income tax is a tax authorized by the Commonwealth of PA. The Township and School District share a 1% tax on earned income. This tax is paid to the Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau through payroll deductions and direct payment. Residents are required to submit annual tax returns by April 15th to the Lancaster County Tax Collection Bureau, which is located at 1845 William Penn Way, Lancaster, PA 17601. Telephone - 717/569-4521.

10. How is the Township real estate tax raised and lowered?

The Township's real estate millage rate is set by the elected Board of Commissioners and from time to time may be changed by its action. Real estate taxes are one source of revenue used to pay for Township services and costs. As expenses rise, the need to raise real estate taxes may occur. In cases where new sources of revenue are implemented, the Board of Commissioners may lower real estate taxes.