Why is there a penalty for turning in a late assessment list?
The authority for penalties for the failure to return an assessment list is found in RSMo 137.345. Penalties are listed and range from $10 to $100, depending on the total assessed value of the property. The statutes provide the assessor with very limited discretion to waive penalties.

It used to be that few penalties were ever applied and lists were commonly filed late. To force compliance, the statutes were changed in the early 1990's. The new rules for compliance on returning lists were much stricter and tougher in consequence, resulting in a dramatic increase in compliance ever since.

The assessor has attempted all forms of public awareness to remind property owners to return their lists on time, however we seem to have about the same number year after year that are turned in late. We continue to use all available resources to remind property owners to turn in their assessment lists on time.

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1. How often do you reassess property?
2. Who makes the decision to reassess my property?
3. Why is reassessment required?
4. What is market value?
5. What is the difference between market value and assessed value?
6. Do all property values change during reassessment?
7. How can my property value increase if I have done nothing to it?
8. What if I disagree with my assessment?
9. Why do my taxes increase?
10. How does reassessment affect my taxes?
11. Is all property taxed at the same rate?
12. Where do you get your car values?
13. Why is there a penalty for turning in a late assessment list?