October 6, 2026
To: Municipal Clerks and Treasurers, County Clerks and Treasurers
The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR), State and Local Finance Division, has received multiple inquiries regarding the use of an alternative property tax bill format. Adopting an alternate property tax format is indeed possible; however, state law must be completely adhered to.
Below, we provide information on the applicable state laws and the process for municipalities to meticulously follow.
State Law
- State law requires DOR to prescribe the information that must be included on property tax bills and its backer (sec. 74.09(3), Wis. Stats.).
- Each municipality must use the prescribed format unless the Department approves an alternative that includes all the required information (sec. 74.09(4m), Wis. Stats.).
Process
Step 1: A municipality's governing body will review and approve any additional information to be displayed on the property tax bill and/or property tax bill format changes.
Note: If another taxing jurisdiction (e.g., school district, special district) would like additional information displayed, they must submit the request to the municipality for review and approval.
Step 2: If a municipality is changing the prescribed format or adding additional information that may impact the statutorily required content, they must submit a draft to the Local Government Services Bureau (LGS) for review/approval.
Note: Generally, if the statutorily required information remains listed clearly and accurately, LGS will approve the request.
Step 3: Once approved by LGS, the municipality has approval to use the alternative property tax bill format and/or display the additional information.
Step 4: Municipalities must coordinate with the appropriate county official if the county prints their property tax bill.
We hope the above information is helpful and provides clarification.
Questions?
Contact us at lgs@wisconsin.gov
.