Due date for Clark County property taxes delayed

Clark County residents and businesses have an extra few weeks to pay property taxes.

The county Treasurer’s Office pushed the property tax due date to June 3 in light of the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to a news release Friday from the county. The extension applies to taxes on both real property, buildings and structures; and personal property, for equipment used in a business.

“The widespread economic impact of the coronavirus is evident and has financially impacted many Clark County property owners,” Clark County Treasurer Alishia Topper said. “This extension will hopefully provide short-term relief during this difficult time.”

The county will not add interest or penalty charges to the tax bill for those who pay half of their property taxes by June 3, according to the release. Topper encouraged residents to meet the regular April 30 deadline if they are able, however.

The latest decision follows an announcement on March 17 that businesses that have been forced to close can pay taxes after the due date without penalties or collection fees. The treasurer’s office has been accepting payment plan requests by email.

“It is my goal to do what I can during this difficult time to help small-business owners who are being impacted by the economic hardship caused by the virus outbreak,” Topper said.

Payments can be made online at www.clark.wa.gov/treasurer/payment-options. Checks and money orders may be mailed to the treasurer’s office — P.O. Box 35150, Seattle, WA 98124-5150 — or deposited in a specially marked, secure dropbox at the Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver.

In-person payments remain suspended as part of social distancing protocols.

The county treasurer’s, auditor’s and assessor’s offices announced this week that they would continue to conduct business virtually. The GIS Map Store also remains closed to in-person services.