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.

Bond Ratings

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

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.

On June 14, 2021 S&P Global Ratings upgraded Monroe County's credit rating to AA- from A+. Supporting this rating upgrade, S&P cited an improved financial position, strong financial management practices, and the timely action taken following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Please download a copy of S&P's press release for more information.

On June 11, 2019 Moody's Investors Service upgraded Monroe County's credit rating to A2 from A3. In their upgrade, Moody's recognized the County's improved operations over the past three years and noted the County's appeal as a place to work and do business, conservative budgeting and careful expense management. Please download a copy of Moody's press release for more information.

The 2020 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report

The Department of Finance, Office of the Controller prepares the Comprehensive Annual 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 2020 Comprehensive Annual 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.