Knowledge Base

Assessments | Deferrals

Category: City Clerk

What is a special assessment deferral?

Qualified property owners may defer payment of special assessments until the deferral ends (see "When does deferral end?).

The assessment obligation is not reduced or canceled, only deferred. Payment will be due and payable in full at some future date.

Interest is compounded annually on a deferred assessment.

How do I qualify for the special assessment deferral?

Minnesota Statutes, Section 435.193 to 435.195, allows municipalities the option of deferring special assessments when homesteaded property is owned by a person who meets the following criteria:

  • Owner(s) are 65 years of age or older and applying for deferral of assessment based on income.
  • Owner(s) are permanently disabled and applying for deferral of assessment based on income/disability,
  • Or owner(s) are a member of the Minnesota National Guard or other military reserves who are ordered into active military service, as defined in section 190.05, subdivision 5b or 5c, as stated in the person's military orders, for whom it would be a hardship to make the payments.

How do I apply for a special assessment deferral?

Application forms are available from the City Clerk's office. You can also call 507-328-2900 to have an application mailed to you. The application must be filed within 60 days of the date of Council approval of the Assessment project.

For questions about Deferrals, please call 507-328-2406 or email pwpermits@rochestermn.gov.

To submit a Deferral Application, please email the documentation to OfficialNotifications@rochestermn.gov.

 What can I do if my deferral application is denied?

City teammates review the application and provided information to determine if all requirements have been met. City Teammates will approve or deny the application based on the information provided. Property owners may appeal a staff decision to the City Council.  

When does a deferral end? 

An assessment deferral will automatically terminate based on the requirements outlined in the City's Assessment Policy. The property owner may also decide to terminate the deferral.  

Once a deferral is terminated, all principal and interest amounts are immediately due.  

Updated 10/15/2026 2:53 PM
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