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The Farmville staff puts their tools to work to ensure that nearly 100% of real estate taxes are paid.

And at the end of the state-mandated 20-year period when localities must write-off those real estate taxes not collected, there is little left that goes unpaid.

Farmville Finance Director Julie A. Moore said the town had only $7.29 from the 2003 real estate assessment to write off, and this included penalties, interest and principal. The town was unable to locate the total of tax bills from 20 years ago, but this small amount does indicate that nearly 100% of the assessment was collected.

In Virginia, the state law mandates that localities write off any real estate taxes not collected after 20 years.

Moore said the Town of Farmville takes a proactive approach to collecting real estate taxes. 

“We begin by sending reminder letters and attempting phone calls for any past-due amounts within the first year,” she said. “If an account remains delinquent after a year, it may be referred to our external collection agency, TACS (Taxing Authority Consulting Services). This agency helps us recover outstanding taxes, which in turn, allows us to continue providing essential services to our community.”

Moore explained that TACS charges an additional fee for its services, which will be added to the outstanding amount. This is in addition to the penalty and interest that kicks in once the real estate tax becomes delinquent.

“Additionally, once an account is transferred to TACS, the town can no longer accept direct payments,” she said. “All payments must be directed to TACS at that point.”

Breaking down the Farmville numbers

With the many tools available to collect real estate taxes, the town had already collected 97.9% of its assessment for the 2023 tax year as of its audit report issued Oct. 31, 2023, Moore said.

“For 2023 our total assessment on real estate was $662,030,769 and Public Service Corporation Real Estate was $38,303,243,” she said.

Moore said the town of Farmville understands planning and flexibility are important for taxpayers and can work with those looking for options on getting that tax bill paid.

“We’re happy to offer prepayment options for your real estate taxes,” she said. “Simply call the finance office and speak with a friendly finance clerk to prepay or discuss setting up a personalized payment plan. We even accept credit card payments for your convenience.”

The town of Farmville strives to assist property owners with their real estate taxes, Moore noted. 

“We encourage open communication – if you anticipate difficulty paying the full amount, please contact the town’s finance office as soon as possible,” she said. “We are happy to work with you on a personalized payment plan. Remember, timely communication is crucial to avoid late fees and penalties.”

However, Moore stressed that taxpayers need to be aware that once their delinquent taxes are sent to TACS, the town’s collection agency, the town can no longer accept payments. 

“At that point, you’ll need to contact TACS directly to arrange a payment plan,” she said.

The town’s finance office is located at 116 North Main St. in Farmville. Call 434-392-3333 to reach clerks in the office to assist with questions or to discuss payment options.