Find answers to residents' most common questions.
Attorney
How do I find out what is happening with the case in which I am a victim?
The County Attorney's Office encourages participation from victims, but the County Attorney's Office represents the State of Iowa, not the victim. At the beginning of the case, our office will mail you paperwork in which we ask you to register with our office. If you choose not to fill out the registration form and return it, you may not get the notifications.
At any time, whether you choose to register or not, you may contact the County Attorney's Office to speak with the attorney or staff to get information about your case.
I am a victim of a crime, and I want to drop the charges against someone; what do I do?
Once a criminal complaint is filed, the State of Iowa is the prosecutor and has sole discretion on how to proceed. Therefore, just because you may want to drop the charges, it does not automatically happen. You will need to contact the County Attorney's Office to schedule an appointment with the attorney that is assigned to the criminal case to discuss potential outcomes of the case.
I have jury duty and can't make it; what do I do?
You will need to speak with the Clerk's Office, call 712-423-2491, about any questions or concerns you have about jury duty.
I have questions or issues with child support; what should I do?
The County Attorney’s Office does not handle custody cases or child support recovery. However, if you have issues with child support, you can visit the child support recovery website.
You can also contact Child Support Recovery Unit - Sioux City:
600 4th St.
Suite 770
Sioux City, IA 51101
Phone: 712-255-2749
Fax: 515-564-4142
Providing services for Buena Vista County, Cherokee County, Ida County, Monona County, Plymouth County and Woodbury County.
I missed a court appearance; what do I do?
You should contact your attorney or the Clerk’s Office at 712-423-2744.
I need a court-appointed attorney; how do I get one?
If you have a pending criminal case that qualifies for a court-appointed attorney, you will have to fill out a financial affidavit and it will have to be approved by a judge. To do this, please visit the Clerk's Office in the Courthouse.
I received a subpoena; what do I do?
A subpoena is a court order requiring a person or business to either appear at a specific time and place or to provide certain documentation. Because it is a court order it is important to comply with the subpoena.
If you received a subpoena for a criminal case and have questions, you may contact the County Attorney’s Office.
I want a no contact order; where do I go?
If there's a domestic relationship, please visit the Main Floor Clerk's Office at the Courthouse.
If criminal charges have been filed, please contact the County Attorney's Office.
I want to drop a no contact order; what do I do?
If it is a domestic protective order, you will need to go to the Clerk's Office at the Courthouse. If it is a no contact order in a criminal case, you will need to write a letter outlining your request to deliver it to the Clerk of Court’s Office.
I want to file charges against someone; what do I need to do?
Contact the police department or sheriff’s department to file a report.
Driver License Reinstatement Program
What is the Driver License Reinstatement Program (DLR)?
It is a program that allows people whose driver’s license has been suspended for non-payment of traffic cases. This plan allows you to get your driver’s license back while making monthly payments if you qualify.
How do I start the Driver License Reinstatement Program?
First you must apply by completing a Questionnaire/Financial Affidavit. Once we have your paperwork we can contact the Department of Transportation to verify what is holding up your license.
How long does the application process take?
We need to get your driving record from the Iowa Department of Transportation to determine if you quality for the program. This process can take up to two (2) weeks. Please be patient. We will send you a letter informing you of our decision.
Do I need car insurance to be on the Driver License Reinstatement Program?
Yes. You MUST provide our office with a copy of your insurance policy prior to the expiration date. We must have a paper copy of your up to date insurance policy at all times in our file.
How do I get insurance if I don’t own a vehicle?
You will need to obtain a ‘non-owners’ policy. Or, you can be placed on another person’s insurance policy but you MUST be a listed driver on that policy.
How do I make payments?
You MUST have your case number(s) to get them applied correctly.
- Pay online through www.iowacourts.gov
- Pay through the mail: You can send a check or money order. Make checks payable to Monona County Clerk of Court and send it to the Monona County Clerk of Court, 610 Iowa Ave., Onawa, IA 51040. Be sure to include at least one case number on your check or money order.
- Pay in person: Go to the Monona County Clerk of Court in the Monona County Courthouse at 610 Iowa Ave., Onawa, IA. They are open Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m (excluding holidays).
- Pay over the phone: If you have a debit or credit card you can pay over the phone by calling th Monona County Clerk's Office at 515-348-4788 or 712-428-2491.
The Monona County Attorney's Office does not accept payments.
Can I get my vehicle registration hold lifted if I get on the Driver License Reinstatement Program?
Yes, unless you have fines in other counties also, then you would have to make arrangements with those counties.
How do I remain in good standing on the Driver License Reinstatement Program?
You MUST do the following:
- Make your monthly payment on time AND
- Provide our office with a copy of your insurance policy prior to the expiration date. We must have a paper copy of your up to date insurance policy at all times in out files.
Failure to comply with these requirements will result in your revocation from the DLR program.
If I was on the Driver License Reinstatement Program and revoked, can I get back on?
It is possible. You will have to qualify and be approved by the organizer. By law you are only allowed five (5) License Reinstatement Plans in a lifetime.
Can I add a ticket I just got on a Driver License Reinstatement Program?
No. Tickets have to be 60 days since disposition date to be on a plan.
Can my civil penalties be added to my Driver License Reinstatement Program?
No. Civil penalties will need to be paid in full before you are put on the Driver License Reinstatement Program. Payment is made to the Iowa Department of Transportation at 1-800-532-1121.
Can fines from counties other than Monona be put on the Driver License Reinstatement Program?
Yes, as long as you have suspended tickets in Monona County and the tickets from the other counties are in suspension as well, and they agree to let us have them.
When is a case eligible for a Driver License Reinstatement Program?
A case is eligible for the License Reinstatement Program after 60 days from your sentencing date and no payments have been made.
Can ticket(s) from other states be put on the Driver License Reinstatement Program?
No. You must pay them off before being accepted into the program.
Do I need SR-22?
You will need to check with the Iowa Department of Transportation by calling 1-800-532-1121.
Can I be on the Driver License Reinstatement Program if my License is barred?
Only if the Iowa Department of Transportation is willing to grant you a temporary restricted license (also called a "work permit").
Can you have money taken directly out of my bank account?
No. We do not have the capability to perform automatic withdrawals.
Who do I contact if I have other questions about my driver’s license?
Contact the Iowa Department of Transportation by calling 1-800-532-1121 or visiting their website at http://www.iowadot.gov/
Auditor
Absentee
Can I pick up or request a ballot for someone else?
No. In Iowa you can only request an absentee ballot for yourself.
Can I request an absentee ballot by email or fax?
Yes. You may request an absentee ballot via email or fax and a ballot will be mailed to you. However, in order for your ballot to be counted you must also mail in or drop off the original paper ballot request.
Can I use power of attorney to request a ballot for my spouse, child or parent?
No. Under Iowa law, power of attorney does not apply for all election related matters.
Can someone else return my absentee ballot for me?
The only people who may return a ballot for a voter are:
- someone living in the voter’s household
- an immediate family member
- a special precinct election official delivering a ballot for health care residents
- a delivery agent, in the case of a voter unable to return a ballot due to blindness or other disability
Do I need to sign the return envelope of my absentee ballot?
Yes! Your absentee ballot cannot be counted unless you have signed the affidavit envelope that you return your ballot in. If we receive a ballot back that has not been signed we will attempt to contact you to get this fixed. Once contacted, you may decide to either:
- Request a replacement ballot and return it by 8:00 p.m. on election day
- Vote at the polls on election day
- Sign the affidavit in person at the county auditor’s office by 8:00 p.m. on election day
Do absentee ballots even get counted?
Yes. There is a myth that absentee ballots only get counted if the election is close, however, this is not true. Under Iowa law, every ballot must be counted.
What is the last day I can turn in my absentee ballot?
You are allowed to hand deliver your ballot to the Auditor’s office up until the time the polls close on Election Day. If you return your ballot through the mail, your ballot must arrive by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, with exceptions for individuals in the Safe at Home program and military/overseas citizens. Learn more on our Absentee Voting page.
Election Day
Can I get help marking my ballot?
Yes. If you need assistance filling out your ballot ask a poll worker for help. A team of one republican and one democrat will come over and help you mark your ballot. Also available in each polling location is a ballot marking device that will read you all of the choices and then print out your marked ballot.
Can I register to vote on Election Day?
Yes. Iowa law allows for Election Day registration if you are able to provide proof of identification (i.e. valid photo ID) and proof of residency (i.e. utility bill with your name on it if your ID has an outdated address on it). If you are unable to provide one or both of these you are allowed to bring someone with you to attest that you have the right to vote.
Can I take my absentee ballot to the polls on Election Day and vote there?
Yes. If you have not returned your absentee ballot you may go to your polling place on Election Day and vote a regular ballot.
Do I need to show ID to vote?
Beginning January 1, 2019, Iowa voters will be required to show a driver’s license, non-driver’s ID, passport, military ID, veterans ID, Tribal ID or Voter ID Card at the polls before they vote. Voters, starting in 2019, without an ID may cast a provisional ballot or have another registered voter attest to their identity.
I am already registered but my information needs updated; can I do that on Election Day?
Yes. While it is recommended that you update your information prior to Election Day to speed things up at the polls, you may wait and do so on Election Day. If you are updating your address just make sure you are going to the polling place for your new address. When updating your address you will now need to provide proof of identity and proof of residency.
I can't get out of my car; can someone bring me a ballot to vote from there?
Yes. If you are unable to go inside the polling place a team of election workers will be sent out to your car to help you vote.
I lost my absentee ballot; can I just go vote on Election Day?
Yes. When you go to vote, a poll worker will verify with the auditor’s office that your absentee ballot has not been returned. If it is confirmed that the auditor’s office has not received a ballot from you then you will be given a new ballot to vote there.
What do I need to bring with me to vote?
Starting in January of 2019 you will be required to show identification. If you need to register to vote on Election Day, you must bring proof of identification and proof of residency.
What if I lost my ID or forgot to take one with me to the polls?
Starting in 2019, if you do not have your ID with you, you may either cast a provisional ballot or have another registered voter attest to your identity. Learn more about provisional ballots and attesting on our Voter ID page.
What if I'm still waiting in line when the polls close?
So long as you are in line to vote at the time the polls close you will be allowed to vote.
What is a provisional ballot?
If a voter’s eligibility is in question on Election Day they are allowed to cast a provisional ballot. After the voter marks their ballot and returns it to the poll worker, the voter is required to provide the necessary identification or documentation at the polling place before it closes or provide it at the Auditor’s Office by noon on the following Monday. If the canvass will be held earlier than the following Monday, the identification must be provided before the canvass.
If it is determined that you do have the right to vote in the precinct in which you voted, your ballot will then be counted and included in the final vote total.
General Information
Can I get a new ballot if I make a mistake or lose my ballot?
Yes. If you make a mistake on an absentee ballot mark your return envelope “Spoiled” and return it to the Auditor’s office either by mail or in person. If you return it by mail contact the Auditor’s office to be sent a new one.
On Election Day if you make a mistake on your ballot, return it to the poll worker to receive a new one. You are allowed up to three ballots so don’t make too many mistakes!
Can I vote for someone that is not on the ballot?
Yes. For each race on the ballot, a line is provided for you to write-in the name of someone for whom you wish to vote for. Make sure you color in the oval!
Can an independent vote in a primary election?
Yes and No. In Iowa, you must be a member of a political party (currently: Republican, Democratic, and Libertarian) to vote in a primary election. However, anyone* can change parties on Election Day and vote. For independents to vote they must declare a political party.
*Precinct election officials may not change political parties within 30 days of an election.
Do I have to vote for everything on the ballot?
No. You can vote for as much or as little as you would like; it’s all up to you!
If I change my mind on who I want to vote for after I have returned my ballot, can I get a new one?
No. If you have already returned your absentee ballot to the Auditor’s office you may not request a new ballot if you have changed your mind on who you wish to vote for.
If I chose a party do I have to vote for all of their candidates?
It depends on the election. In primary elections, you can only vote for candidates from the party to which you belong. In general elections, you are free to vote for anyone you like, regardless of their party affiliation.
What if I don't have an ID?
Registered voters who do not have an Iowa driver’s license or non-operator’s ID were issued a voter ID card. Voter ID cards must be signed before going to the polls. The new voter ID card will contain a PIN number that will be used for voting purposes. If you should have a voter ID card and do not, please contact our office to have one sent to you.
What is Voter ID?
Starting in 2019, voters must provide an ID when going to vote. Voters who do not have ID will be allowed to either cast a provisional ballot or have another registered voter attest to their identification. Learn more about provisional ballots and attesting on our Voter ID page.
There are 6 approved types of identification that may be used:
- an Iowa Driver’s License or Non-Operator ID
- a Voter ID issued by the Secretary of State or the Auditor’s Office
- a current US Passport
- a US Military ID
- a US Veteran’s ID
- a Tribal ID
Where do I vote?
Where you vote is determined by where you live and you must vote in the precinct to which you are assigned for your ballot to be counted. To find your polling place please visit the Polling Places page on our website.
Registration
Can I update my voter registration over the phone?
Can a homeless person register to vote?
Yes. Any eligible voter in Iowa may register to vote. Because many of those who are homeless have a nontraditional address they just need to provide an address or description of where they sleep the most, wherever that may be.
Can someone with a previous felony conviction vote?
Those with a prior felony conviction are only permitted to vote if their voting rights have been restored by the Governor, including through Executive Order. For more information about restoration of rights, contact the Governor’s office or visit the voter registration page on our website.
Do I have to register to vote for every election?
No. You would only need to re-register if your information has changed and you need to update it.
How do I update my address?
If you have moved recently and need to update your address for voting, all you have to do is fill out a new voter registration form and submit it to the Auditor’s office. If you do not update your address after a move through a new voter registration form and do not vote in the next general election, you will be marked inactive (inactive voters may still vote with proper ID). Registration will be canceled if two more general elections pass with no voter activity.
I just registered and received a card in the mail but there is a mistake on it; what do I do now?
If you notice a mistake on your voter card please contact the Auditor’s Office and/or submit a new registration form to correct your information.
I registered as an independent; why does my card say "NP" or "No Party"?
Iowa does not recognize an “independent” party. Instead, “No Party” is used to indicate a lack of affiliation with a political party.
Drainage
What is a drainage district?
Drainage districts have been established for the drainage of surface waters from agricultural and other lands for the protection of said lands from overflow when said
protection is a public benefit or is conducive to public health, convenience, and welfare (Section 468.2, State Code of Iowa).
Who sets up drainage districts?
Drainage districts are established by the Board of Supervisors at the request of the landowners within the proposed district (Section 468.1). Petitions and actions to establish are kept in the minute books in the County Drainage office.
What are assessments for?
Assessments are made as necessary to pay for engineering costs, improvements, and repairs within a given drainage district.
How is my assessment determined?
Assessment or classification of land in a drainage district is based on the benefit that land is seen to receive from being in the district. The original assessed value of any parcel of land within a district was set when that district was established and is the basis for all future assessments unless the district is reclassified by the board (Section 468.49).
Who are the trustees?
Under the Code of Iowa, Chapter 468, the County Board of Supervisors act as Drainage District Trustees in all District matters. The land owners of a particular district may, if they wish, elect their own trustees and maintain the district themselves. (Section 468.500)
Can the trustees make repairs without my consent?
Yes. The trustees are required by the Code of Iowa (Section 468.126) to maintain all drainage districts at their original capacity. Notice of repairs is only required when the cost will exceed $50,000 but less than the competitive bid threshold in Section 26.3.
Can I get out of the district?
No, unless the district is dissolved (Sections 468.250-468.261).
Where are the drainage district records kept?
All drainage district records are kept in the County Drainage Office.
Where can I complain about drainage problems?
Drainage district repairs are generally done at the direction of the Supervisors/Trustees and requests for repairs should be directed to the Drainage Office. Other complaints, problems, or questions can be directed to the drainage clerk or to the drainage district trustees.
Who pays for drainage district repairs?
Property owners within a district pay for all its maintenance and repairs. An independent contractor hired by the trustees will do the work and bill the cost to the district. Members of the district pay based on the proportion of the original assessed value of their property to the original assessed value of the entire district.
Why are the drainage assessments not proportional to property valuation?
Assessments are computed as a percentage of the original assessment which is based on the benefit that a property is seen to receive by being inside the district (see next question).
Why is my assessment $25.00 when my neighbor's is only $7.00?
Assessments are based on the benefit a particular property receives from the district. You can consult district maps (available through the drainage clerk) to determine your property's location within the drainage district in relation to the ditch.
I've lived here for years and have never gotten a drainage bill. Why now?
Drainage districts are not levied on a regular basis. When a district is levied the trustees set the percentage such that a surplus remains after all bills are paid. The district will not be levied again until its funds are depleted. Depending on the amount of work required in the district, some districts are levied every year while a few have gone 50 years or more without a levy. To find out when your district was last levied, contact the drainage clerk.
What happens if I don't pay my assessment?
Delinquent drainage assessments become a lien on the property (Section 468.51). The property can then be sold for back taxes/assessments just as it can be sold for nonpayment of property taxes (Section 468.158.-162).
Treasurer
All Departments
What are certified/guaranteed funds?
Certified Funds or Guaranteed Funds are funds in the form of:
- Cash
- Cashier’s Check
- Money Order
Certified/Guaranteed Funds are required when redeeming a tax sale or paying back an insufficient payment.
What are your hours?
Property Taxes
Monday thru Friday
8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Motor Vehicle
Monday thru Friday
8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Driver’s License
Monday thru Friday
8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Written Testing 8:00 a.m. -3:30 p.m.
Driving Test By Appointment Only
To schedule non-commercial drive exam, you must call to schedule an appointment; 712-433-2347 Option # 2 for Driver’s License.
What types of payment are accepted?
Cash
Cashier’s Check
Money Order
Credit or Debit Cards *processing fees apply
Driver's License
Can I schedule a driving test?
Please call the office to schedule a non-commercial drive exam. Drive exams are by appointment only.
Monona County does not do CDL or motorcycle drive tests.
For a CDL driving test, please visit the Iowa DOT website to schedule an appointment at a location that does CDL driving test.
How do I get a Persons with Disabilities hanging plaque?
You will need a letter from a doctor stating you qualify for a permanent or temporary disability. There is no fee.
How does my child get a school permit?
They must have taken driver's education and held their permit for 6 months with no accidents or citations. They will need to fill out a Minor School Affidavit and have it signed by their principal. Most schools have these at their disposal.
How much will an ID cost?
An ID costs $8 and is good for 8 years. The same documents are needed to get an ID as getting a driver's license.
There is a $10 out of county convenience fee in addition to license cost.
How much will my license cost?
An operator’s license is $4 per year.
A CDL is $8 per year.
There is a $10 out of county convenience fee in addition to license cost.
I got my license renewed but the expiration only shows it’s good for one month?
Yes, the paper license is a temporary license and will expire in 30 days. Your real plastic license should arrive in the mail within 10-21 days. If it has not arrived after 21 days, please call the number on the back of the paper copy to see if it has been returned to the State of Iowa. If the State can track the lost license, they will put a note on your record for permission to reissue.
I just turned 21 and would like to get a horizontal license. How much does that cost?
$10 replacement fee.
There is a $10 out of county convenience fee in addition to license cost.
I lost my driver's license, how much is a replacement?
$10.00 to replace your license.
There is a $10 out of county convenience fee in addition to license cost.
I’m 16, what do I need to do to get my license?
You will need to bring in a parent and your current permit. You must have taken and passed a driver’s education course, held a permit for one year, and have a clean driving record for the past six months.
I’m 17, what do I need to do to get my full license?
You will need to bring in a parent to sign if you are under 18. You must have held the intermediate license for a year with a clean record. After you turn 18, those requirements are no longer needed.
My child drives to their other parent's house every other week. Can there be two addresses on their school permit?
Yes, as long as they are the parents. No other address can be put on the form. No address out of the school district is allowed. Put the second address under “Additional address that student intends to drive from" on the Minor School Affidavit.
What does my child need to take their permit test?
They will need their birth certificate, social security card, 2 proofs of residency, and a parent with them. If the parent cannot be present, they will need to bring in a signed parent affidavit form.
If the parent cannot provide proof of residency for their minor, the parent will need to fill out a parental consent form AND provide their Iowa driver’s license/identification card that reflects the same address as the minors address.
What is the phone and fax number to the DOT?
Driver’s Services
Phone: 515-244-8725
Fax: 515-239-1837
What type of documents do I need to get the Real ID (gold star) on my license?
You must provide a certified birth certificate or valid passport, proof of social security, any name change documents (certified marriage certificate or court document) if the name on the license is different from a birth certificate or passport, and two forms of residency such as mail, bank statement, voter registration card or lease agreement.
Iowa DOT website
When can I renew my driver’s license?
You can renew up to 180 days before and 60 days after your expiration date. If you are over one year expired, you will have to do full testing.
Motor Vehicles
Can I put a vehicle title into someone else’s name?
No. The new owner needs to be present at the time of transfer or have the appropriate forms completed beforehand. If you are transferring a title on behalf of another person, you may download Form 411007 from the Iowa DOT website. They must complete and sign this form.
Do I have to have an appointment for Motor Vehicle?
No appointment is required for Motor Vehicle services.
How can we pay vehicle registrations?
Payment methods for vehicle registrations:
- Through the mail. Postmark must be by last day of grace month to avoid penalty.
- In our office from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- Online through the Iowa Treasurer's website.
- Drop Box located at South/Main Court House Entrance – check only
How do I get a Persons with Disabilities plate?
You will need a letter from a doctor stating you qualify for a permanent disability. You must be an owner of the vehicle.
How do I get a replacement title?
Download Form 411033 from the Iowa DOT website.
There is a 5-day waiting period if the original title is lost. (If the original has been altered or spoiled in some way, please submit the original title to us with Form 411033 and we will process a replacement title in the same day.)
Anybody whose name is on the face of the title MUST sign the replacement application.
The replacement title must be ordered where the title was made (county specific). The fee is $25.00 cash only.
How do I get a salvage title vehicle inspected?
You must complete the inspection form on the DOT website. You will then be contacted by DOT for further guidance.
For more information on salvage titles, please visit the Iowa DOT website.
How do I order personalized/vanity license plates?
How do I register a newly-purchased vehicle?
If you purchased a new vehicle, you will need to bring in the title, bill of sale, Iowa driver's license or Iowa ID, and Application for Certificate of Title signed by all owners.
Completed Bill of Sale (signed by the seller, description of vehicle, date of sale, purchase price) is required for all vehicle transfers.
Damage Disclosure Statement is required for vehicles 7 years and newer.
Odometer Disclosure Statement is required for vehicles 2011 and newer.
How do I title and register a homemade trailer?
Get an empty weight scale ticket.
If the empty weight is less than 2,000 lbs, the trailer is considered a small regular trailer. A small regular trailer will have a registration only and receive a small single plate. You will need to bring in the empty weight scale ticket, Iowa driver’s license or Iowa ID, and all owners will have to sign the Application for Title and Registration. The annual registration fee will be $20.
If the weight is over 2,000 lbs, the trailer is considered a regular trailer. Your next step is to visit the Bureau of Investigations & Identity Protection website and contact your local investigator by email. A bureau investigator will inspect the trailer, review your documents, and assign a VIN. Once a VIN is assigned, you can come into the Treasurer’s office to title and register the trailer. You will need to bring in the empty weight scale ticket, Iowa driver’s license or Iowa ID, and all owners will have to sign the Application for Title and Registration. The annual registration fee will be $30.
How long do I have to renew my plates & registration?
The month before the plates are due, the month of, and the month after.
How long do I have to renew my plates and registration?
The month before the plates are due, the month of the plates, and the month after.
Example: September plate renewal — August, September, October.
**Please remember that other states do no honor Iowa’s grace period (month after registration is due) and you could be subject to a ticket for expired registration if traveling out of state.
How long do I have to title and register a newly purchased vehicle?
You have 30 days from the date of sale to title and register a new vehicle.
I lost one of my license plates. How do I get a new one?
You can get a new one at the Treasurer's Office. Bring the plate you have and your current registration with you. The cost is $5 for a replacement set of plates.
I lost the sticker off my plate. How do I get a new one?
You can get a new one at the Treasurer's Office. Bring your current registration with you. The cost is $3 for a replacement sticker.
I moved from out of state and need Iowa plates. What do I need to bring?
You will need the out of state title, out of state registration, Iowa driver's license or Iowa ID, proof of Iowa residents and Application for Certificate of Title signed by all owners.
I sold or junked my vehicle, what do I do with my plates and how do I get a refund?
If you sold your vehicle and do not plan to replace it, turn your plates in within six months of the date of sale and we will apply for a refund if there is $10 or more credit on the plates.
If you sold your vehicle and plan to replace it within the next six months, you may use the credit (minimum of $10) on the plates, however you have 30 days to use the plates on your new vehicle.
If you have turned in your leased vehicle, you will need to fill out a Claim for Refund and a Lease Termination Form , along with your plates. You can then apply for a refund as long as there is $10 or more of credit on the plates.
If you have moved out of state, you will need to complete a Claim for Refund form and also send in a copy of your current out of state registration. You can apply for a refund as long as there is $10 or more of credit on the plates.
If paying registration online, where can I find my PIN?
Your PIN is specific to you and should not change so you can use it from year to year. The PIN is located on your renewal notice in the top right-hand corner. If you cannot find it, you can contact our office at 712-433-2347, option #3 for Motor Vehicle. When calling the office, please provide your plate number so we can look up your PIN.
If your renewal notice does not contain a PIN, you are not eligible to renew online. Please refer to the back of the renewal notice for more information.
Questions about abandoned vehicles?
What do I do when an owner on a title(s) is deceased?
There are many circumstances regarding the death of an owner listed on a title. Please contact our office at (712) 433-2347, option # 3 for Motor Vehicle department. Please have the title(s) with you in case we have questions.
Plate Replacement Cycle
I just received my renewal notice in the mail, how do I determine if I am getting new plates?
The front of the renewal notice will have a ‘Y’ in the ‘Plates’ column field.
If my old plate was replaced due to the replacement cycle, what should I do with my old plate that I have on my vehicle?
You should recycle your old plate. You are not required to turn in the plates to the County Treasurer. The Vehicle system will record that new plates have been issued to a customer.
If my plate on my vehicle is still readable and looks okay do I have to get a new plate?
If your plate is 10 years old or older you have no choice, the vehicle system is programmed to automatically issue a replacement plate.
If only one of my vehicles is due for a replacement plate this year, can I get new plates for my other vehicles so that all of my plates are in sequential order?
If you choose to replace plates outside of your plate replacement period, you will be charged a $5 replacement plate fee. You will also need to turn in your old plates and current registration. If you do not have the current registration to turn in, we will accept the plates alone.
Were the postage and handling fee increased because of the plate replacement?
Due to the higher cost of mailing envelopes and packages from the postal service, the cost of mailing a set of plates has gone up slightly. The cost to mail a set of plates is $5.00. The cost of mailing a registration with a tag is $1.00.
Were there changes to the license plate design?
In 2018 the County Standard plate design was updated to the “City and Country Reboot,” which features city and country images in the top blue border. In July 2011 the numbers and letters on the plate changed from blue to black color. In November 2011 the zero was changed to a circle slash zero to assist law enforcement.
What is the Plate Replacement Cycle?
The Plate Replacement Cycle is a program that the Department of Transportation has implemented for license plates that are 10 years old or older and are still on a vehicle. The life span of a license plate is about 10 years. The goal is to replace those plates so there will never be a license plate on any vehicle over 10 years old.
When am I eligible to be reissued new plates?
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If your plates were issued in:
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The plate will be replaced in:
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2011
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2021
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2012
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2022
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2013
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2023
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2014
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2024
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2015
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2025
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2016
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2026
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2017
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2027
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2018
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2028
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2019
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2029
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2020
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2030
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When did the replacement plate cycle start?
The replacement plate cycle started on April 1, 2012 for the May 2013 registration renewal month.
Property Tax
How can I pay taxes?
You may pay by any of the following convenient ways:
- Through the mail. Postmark must be by September 30 for the first half payment and March 31 for the second half payment to avoid penalty.
- In our office from 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
- Online through the Iowa Treasurer's website.
- Drop Box located at South/Main Court House Entrance – check only
What and when is a tax sale?
The tax sale is the sale of any unpaid property taxes within the county as of the first part of June. The tax sale is held electronically on the third Monday in June.
What happens if I change mailing address?
There are multiple ways to notify the Treasurer of your new mailing address:
- Locate your parcel(s) on www.IowaTreasurers.org and submit Request an Address Change
- Call the Property Tax Department at 712-433-2347 option 1
- Email the Property Tax Department at [email protected] with parcel number(s), old address, new address and phone number.
What is Drainage tax?
Drainage tax is the cost of improvements to a drainage district. Drainage districts were established for drainage of surface waters from agriculture and other lands for the protection of said lands from overflow when said protection is a public benefit or is conducive to public health, convenience, and welfare. (Iowa Code Chapter 468.2)
What is the Disabled/Senior Credit?
To file a claim for the disabled/senior credit, Iowa residents must meet ONE of the following criteria:
- 65 years of age or older by December 31, 2022 -AND- total household income less than $25,328
- 18 years of age or older by December 31, 2022 and totally disabled -AND- total household income less than $25,328
- 70 years of age of older by December 31, 2022 -AND- total household income less than 250% of the federal poverty level (see table below)
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2022 Household Income Guidelines for Persons Aged 70 and Older
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Number of persons in family/household
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Total household income is less than or equal to
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1
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$33,975
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2
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$45,775
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3
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$57,575
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4
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$69,375
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5
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$81,175
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6
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$92,975
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7
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$104,775
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8
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$116,575
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For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $11,800 for each additional person.
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HOW TO FILE FOR THE DISABLED/SENIOR CREDIT
- Complete and return the 2023 Iowa Property Tax Credit Claim form to the Monona County Treasurer.
- Monona County Treasurer, 610 Iowa Ave, PO BOX 415, Onawa, IA 51040
- Provide proof of all 2022 income. We can make copies for you.
- If you are under 65 years old and totally disabled, proof of disability is required. See the instructions provided with the application.
- Applications are due by June 1st, 2023.
**Claimants of the Disabled/Senior Credit must file a claim each year in order to receive the maximum benefit of the tax credit.**
What is the penalty if property taxes are paid late?
A 1.5% penalty is assessed per month after the due date.
When are property taxes due?
Because we run on a fiscal year and not a calendar year:
- First half taxes are September 1st, delinquent October 1
- Second half taxes are due March 1st, delinquent April 1
If a customer wants to pay the full year taxes at one time, they will typically pay the whole year in September.
When do I receive my property tax billing/statement?
Taxes are billed every fall and statements typically get mailed middle of August.
Where do I file for homestead credit?
Almost all credits are applied for through the Assessor's Office. To apply for a homestead credit, please contact the Monona County Assessor.
*The only credit handled by the Treasurer’s Office is the Disabled/Senior Credit. Please visit the Property Tax Credits page for more information.
Where do I find out what I paid for taxes last year?
