The Department of Finance supervises and controls the financial affairs of Monroe County. This includes coordinating and managing the functions of the Office of the Controller, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Divisions of the Treasury, Real Property Tax Service, Purchasing, and Internal Audit, as well as Debt Management.

The mission of the Department of Finance is to maximize the ability of Monroe County government to promote the social and economic well being of the community in a financially responsible and sustainable fashion, minimizing the reliance on County taxpayer resources.

Sales Tax

Effective March 1, 2023 Monroe County will not require local sales tax on the purchase of clothing and footwear sold for less than $110 per item or pair, consistent with the current exemption from NYS sales tax. Please download Tax Bulletin TB-ST-122 and Tax Bulletin TB-ST-530 for more detailed information on what is and what is not specifically taxable.

Were you charged sales tax in error by a retailer? If so, you may be entitled to a credit or refund from NYS. Please download Tax Bulletin TB-ST-350 for more detailed information. You may also download Form AU-11 to apply for the credit or refund due to you.

Bond Ratings

Beginning in the summer of 2017, Monroe County has received credit rating upgrades from each of the three major rating agencies - seven rating upgrades in total.

On October 4, 2022 Moody's Investors Service upgraded Monroe County's credit rating to A1/Positive from A2/Stable. This latest upgrade reflects the County's growing tax base and economy, its improving financial operations and reserves, and manageable debt position. The Positive outlook reflects the expectation that the County's financial flexibility is likely to remain sound given conservative budgeting, strong budgetary oversight, and updated financial policies that look to maintain a higher level of reserves. Please download a copy of Moody's credit opinion for more information.

On June 13, 2022 S&P Global Ratings affirmed Monroe County's credit raing of AA- with a Stable outlook. Their rating reflects their view of the County's expanding economy centered on education and healthcare, strong finances and increasing reserves, and well-embedded financial managment policies. Please download a copy of S&P's press release for more information.

On February 11, 2022 Fitch Ratings upgraded Monroe County's credit rating to A+ from A. In their rating report, Fitch noted the County's improved financial resilience, consistent record of actively managing its expenses, and its diversified local economy. Please download a copy of Fitch's press release for more information.

The 2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

The Department of Finance, Office of the Controller prepares the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report each year in accordance with the County Charter. The financial statements contained within the report have been audited by an independent certified public accounting firm, for which their opinion is included in its entirety and without edit. 

View 2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What is the Sales Tax Rate in Monroe County?

A: The combined sales tax rate is 8%, comprised of 4% State and 4% County.

Q:  I have a question regarding a check that I received in the mail from Monroe County. Who should I call?

A: Please call the Office of the Controller at (585) 753-1170.

Q: I'm attending community college in another county. How do I obtain a Certificate of Residency?

A: You can obtain a Certificate of Residency from the Office of Real Property Tax Service. Please visit the Real Property Tax Service page for more details.

Q: Who do I call regarding County taxes due on a property?

A: For information on property taxes due, please call the Monroe County Treasury Office at (585) 753-1200.

Q: Who do I call if I owe delinquent property taxes?

A: For options to resolve delinquent property tax issues, please call the Monroe County Treasury Office at (585) 753-1200.

Q: Are the County's financial statements available online?

A: Yes. Please download the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.

Q: Does the County have an Independent Registered Municipal Advisor (IRMA) disclosure?

A: Yes. Please download the required IRMA disclosure notice.

Q: How do I obtain a copy of my property instrument survey map?

A: Property instrument survey maps are typically a private record. Please visit the County Surveyors Office page under Information for General Public for suggestions of where to find your property instrument survey map.

Q: How do I find a licensed land surveyor?

A: Please visit the County Surveyors Office page under Information for General Public for suggestions for finding a licensed land surveyor.  Please note that a land surveyor must be licensed and registered by the State of New York to provide property surveys.