Tax Collector Overview
The Tax Collector’s office handles the billing, receipt, and processing of Lyme’s property tax payments. Property tax bills are mailed annually, and payments must be made by the due date posted on the bill. Payments can be made by mail, in person during office hours, or placed in the locked drop box at the town office entryway. Taxpayers are responsible for ensuring their mortgage company or escrow service receives their bill if taxes are paid through an escrow account.
Contact Information
- Marci O’Keefe — Tax Collector
- Deborah Kilham — Deputy Tax Collector
- Phone: (603) 795-4416
- Hours: Tuesdays, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, or by appointment
- Address: One High Street, PO Box 113, Lyme, NH 03768
Accepted Payment Methods
- Cash
- Certified bank checks
- Cashier’s checks
- Personal checks
- Money orders
If a personal check is returned for non-payment, a fee may be assessed.
Confirming Payments
Taxpayers may confirm receipt of payment by:
- Including a self-addressed stamped envelope with payment for a mailed receipt
- Checking bank records or contacting the bank if paid by check
Mailing and Drop-Off Options
- Payments can be mailed to the Tax Collector’s address above.
- A locked mailbox inside the town office entryway is available for secure drop-off.
Applications for Tax Abatements, Credits, and Exemptions
The town offers several forms of relief that may reduce property tax liability, including:
- Tax Abatements — Requests for reduction based on errors or other qualifying conditions
- Exemptions — Adjustments that reduce assessed value (for example, elderly, veteran, disabled, blind)
- Tax Credits — Direct reductions from the amount of taxes owed
To apply for any exemption or credit, applications must typically be filed by April 15 prior to the setting of the tax rate. Available programs often include:
- Elderly Exemptions
- Veterans’ Tax Credits and Exemptions
- Other state-authorized exemptions and credits
Eligibility criteria vary by program and are based on age, income, disability status, veteran status, and other factors.
Tax Rate Information
Property taxes in Lyme are set annually. Key points include:
- Taxes are collected once per year with due dates listed on the tax bill. Late payments may incur interest.
- If taxes are not paid by the due date or within 30 days of mailing the tax notice, interest (often a percentage per annum) may be charged.
- Taxpayers unable to pay due to hardship may contact the Board of Selectmen for assistance.
- Notices of tax delinquencies and tax liens are issued according to state guidelines when taxes remain unpaid, with specified timelines and redemption provisions.
Important Deadlines and Notices
- Exemption and credit applications generally must be filed by April 15 preceding the tax rate setting.
- Tax bills are mailed annually; the due date is on the bill, and postmarks are accepted as the payment date.
- Notices of delinquency, liens, and impending deeds are mailed in accordance with statutory requirements.