PROPERTY TAXES

There are two types of ad valorem, or property taxes, collected by the Lee County Tax Collector's office -- real estate property taxes and tangible personal property taxes.

Florida property taxes are relatively unique because:

• They are levied annually.
• Taxes have to be paid in full and at one time (unless the property owner has filed for the installment program or for homestead tax deferrals).
• Substantial discounts are extended for early payment.
• Five months elapse before real property owners can be penalized for non-payment of taxes.

Tax notices are mailed on or before November 1 of each year. All tax payments are due before April 1, at which time the taxes become delinquent and additional charges will apply.

Florida Statute 197.162 offers taxpayers a discount paying their taxes early.

• 4% if paid in November
• 3% if paid in December
• 2% if paid in January
• 1% if paid in February

When the discount period ends on a weekend or holiday, the discount is extended to the next business day.