Second-half property taxes for most Stearns and Benton County homes are due Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Here is what owners need to know before the deadline.
Who pays on Oct. 15
Under Minnesota’s property tax calendar, the second half of real estate taxes is due Oct. 15 unless part of the parcel is classified as class 2a agricultural land. Benton County lists the same Oct. 15 date for real estate and personal property. Agricultural parcels and manufactured homes generally follow a Nov. 15 second-half date.
How to pay in Stearns County
Stearns County Auditor-Treasurer Randy Schreifels has said owners can pay by mail, in person or online through the county’s property access site. Mailed payments must be postmarked by the due date to avoid penalties. Payments can also be scheduled ahead of time. In-person options include the Administration Center in downtown St. Cloud and the Service Center in Waite Park.
How to pay in Benton County
Benton County accepts online payments, mail to the Auditor-Treasurer in Foley, in-person payment at the Government Center (8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. weekdays), a drop box at the front door, and optional direct-pay automatic withdrawal. If the 15th falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the due date moves to the next business day. Oct. 15, 2026, is a Thursday, so the listed date stands.
If you are buying or selling
Property taxes and escrow show up in almost every closing. An automated online home-value estimate will not tell you how taxes or assessments affect a specific house. A local agent can walk through the real numbers for a property you are considering.
Sources: Minnesota Department of Revenue property tax calendar; Benton County Property Tax Statements & Payments; WJON interview with Stearns County Auditor-Treasurer Randy Schreifels. Checked Oct. 12, 2026.
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Sponsored by Dan DeMark, Realtor | LPT Realty (goldenrulerealestateservices.com). Buying or selling in Stearns or Benton County? Contact Dan for a real valuation or help navigating taxes and closings.
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