A recent news story that aired on local television recently may have been confusing to some viewers regarding the procedures of how this office collects unpaid real estate taxes. We wanted to share the facts with you.

- The Collector of Revenue received an excellent audit by Missouri State Auditor, Susan Montee. In fact, Montee stated that "it was one of the best audits to date."

- There are more than 122,000 parcels of property in the City of St. Louis.

- The Collector of Revenue Office collects 100 percent of real estate taxes.

- Less than four percent of all tax payers violate state tax laws and miss the December 31st real estate tax deadline.

- The Collector of Revenue Office complies with all state and local laws.

- This office has implemented a formal and strict process (supported by Missouri State Auditors) to collect unpaid real estate taxes that:

o Is cost-effective to tax payers.

o Is compassionate to real estate property owners who may be late on taxes because of a family death, property disputes, property sales, inaccurate ownership of title information, etc.

o Accrues penalties and interest until all taxes are properly settled.

o Is legally binding due to State Statute 92, which gives the office permission to file legal action to sell property to recover unpaid taxes.

For additional questions, please feel free to cal the Real Estate Tax Office at Phone: 314 622-4106.