T
he Cape Girardeau County collector's offices will reopen on Tuesday after being closed for Veterans Day. Barbara Gholson, county collector, notes that tax bills were mailed out during the first week of November and must be paid by December 31. Residents can pay in person at either the Cape Girardeau or Jackson offices, online, or by mail.

    Payment details are listed on the back of each tax bill, including payment links and office locations. Those paying via mail should ensure their check is postmarked by the due date. The drop box outside the collector's office will be checked after midnight on January 1, so payments must be dropped off before then. Credit card payments can only be made in person or online, with an additional servicing fee applied to online transactions.

    Personal property taxes are now due for residents who registered vehicles, farm equipment, boats, or livestock with the county assessor at the start of the year. Real estate tax bills should have been received by Thanksgiving; if not, contact the collector's office. Failure to pay personal property and real estate taxes on time will result in interest and penalties.

    Interest accrues at 2 percent per month up to 18 percent, with a delinquency penalty of 9 percent added in January. Long-term consequences include being unable to renew vehicle licenses, potentially resulting in expired plate tickets. Real estate tax delinquency for over two years can lead to the county's tax lien sale.

    When bills arrive, residents should check that everything is included and verify the correct vehicles are listed. If there are any issues, contact the collector or assessor promptly. Those with escrow accounts can save time and money by allowing their company to pay the bill by December 15. The collector's office will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas; regular hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.