For many residents in the Crooked Creek area, property taxes are more than just a line item on a budget—they are a critical factor in the affordability of our neighborhood. As we move through 2026, several key factors are influencing what you see on your tax bill. Understanding the "how" and "why" behind these numbers is the first step in effective advocacy.

1. The Assessment Surge

Over the last few years, Indianapolis has seen significant growth in property values. While this is great for home equity, it often leads to higher tax assessments. In Indiana, property taxes are paid in arrears—meaning the bill you pay in 2026 is based on your home's value as of January 1, 2025.

If you believe your assessment is higher than the actual market value of your home, you have the right to appeal.

Advocacy Tip: The deadline to appeal your assessment is typically June 15 or 45 days after the date of your Notice of Assessment. Check your mail carefully for Form 11 (Notice of Assessment).

2. The 1% Property Tax Cap (Circuit Breaker)

Indiana law includes a "Circuit Breaker" credit that prevents property taxes on a primary residence from exceeding 1% of the home's gross assessed value.

• Example: If your home is valued at $200,000, your property tax bill (before certain voter-approved referendums) should not exceed $2,000 per year.
• The Catch: This cap only applies if you have filed for your Homestead Deduction. Without it, you could be taxed at the 2% or 3% rate.

3. Essential Deductions: Don’t Leave Money on the Table

The most effective way to lower your tax bill is through deductions. If you haven't checked your status recently, now is the time to ensure you are receiving the following:

• Homestead Deduction: This is the most important. It significantly reduces the assessed value of your primary home.
• Over 65 Deduction: If you or your spouse are 65 or older and meet certain income requirements, you may qualify for an additional reduction.
• Veteran’s Deduction: Available to disabled veterans or surviving spouses.
• Mortgage Deduction: Note: As of 2023, the Indiana legislature folded the Mortgage Deduction into the Homestead Deduction to simplify the process.

4. Why Did My Bill Still Go Up? (Referendums)

You may notice your bill is slightly higher than 1% of your home's value. This usually happens because of voter-approved referendums. These are specific taxes approved by the community to fund things like:

• Public school construction and teacher salaries.
• Public transportation expansions (like IndyGo).
• Health and safety infrastructure.

Referendums are "outside" the 1% cap, meaning they are added to your bill even if you’ve already hit the circuit breaker limit.

5. Take Action: How to Manage Your Bill

• Check Your Status: Visit the Marion County Auditor’s Portal to verify that your deductions are active.
• Payment Deadlines: Property taxes in Indiana are due in two installments: May 10 and November 10.
• Escrow Check: If you pay through a mortgage escrow account, ensure your bank has adjusted your monthly payment to account for new assessment values to avoid a "shortage" next year.

Closing Thought

At Crooked Creek Alert, we believe that informed neighbors are powerful neighbors. Staying on top of your property tax filings is a form of self-advocacy that keeps our community stable and affordable for everyone—from first-time homeowners to our long-term seniors.