City of Bridgeport Finance Department - Bridgeport, CT

City of Bridgeport Finance Department

The City of Bridgeport Finance Department serves as the central fiscal authority for the municipal government. While historically located in the old City Hall, the department's primary public-facing offices—including the Tax Collector and Tax Assessor—are now situated in the Margaret E. Morton Government Center at 999 Broad Street. This department is responsible for safeguarding the city's financial assets, managing the annual budget in coordination with the Office of Policy and Management, and ensuring the accurate collection of revenues. Under the leadership of the Finance Director, the department maintains the fiscal integrity of Bridgeport through rigorous accounting, treasury management, and purchasing protocols.

Tax Collector's Office

The most frequently visited division within the Finance Department is the Tax Collector's Office. This office is responsible for billing and collecting all municipal taxes, including:

• Real Estate Taxes: Levied on land and buildings.
• Motor Vehicle Taxes: Assessed on registered vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles).
• Personal Property Taxes: Levied on business equipment and furniture.

Residents should note that tax bills are typically due in two installments (July and January). Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Government Center. When paying in person, bringing the original bill is highly recommended to expedite the process.

Tax Assessor's Office

Also located at the Government Center, the Tax Assessor's Office is charged with discovering, listing, and valuing all property within the city limits to generate the Grand List. This office handles:

• Property Assessments: Determining the fair market value of real estate and personal property.
• Exemptions: Processing applications for tax relief programs, including those for veterans, active-duty military personnel, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
• Appeals: Managing the initial steps for residents wishing to contest their property assessment before the Board of Assessment Appeals.

Location and Visitor Information

The Finance Department operates out of the Margaret E. Morton Government Center (999 Broad Street). Visitors must pass through security screening, including metal detectors, upon entering the building. While the Finance Department is open to the public, many services, particularly tax payments and bill lookups, are available 24/7 through the city's online portals (`mytaxbill.org`), which can save residents significant time.