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Board of Elections |
Q: Am I eligible to vote?
A: You may register to vote in Cabarrus County if you are:
- A citizen of the United States (if convicted of a felony, citizenship rights must have been restored).
- A person 18 years of age or older
- A legal resident of Cabarrus County for 30 days by the date of the next election.
Cabarrus has free, permanent and continuous registration. You need to register, change address or re-register ONLY if you:
- Have not registered in Cabarrus County before.
- Have moved to a different voting precinct since you registered in Cabarrus County. If you move, it is a violation of the law to return to your old precinct and vote after 30 days.
- Wish to change your party affiliation
- Have changed your name
- Have been placed on Inactive status.
A voter registration card will be mailed to you once your registration application has been processed or a change is made to your registration. They are mailed weekly. Keep the card, as it may be used to change your address by mail should you move, change your name or change your party within Cabarrus County. It can also be used to cancel your Cabarrus County registration should you move out of the County.
A registration form must be postmarked 25 days before an election or delivered to the Board of Elections no later than 25 days before an election in order to be valid for that election.
Registration may be placed in inactive status if a voter card is returned by the Postal Service as undeliverable.
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Q: How do I register to vote?
A: You may obtain registration forms at the following locations in Cabarrus County. Board of Elections Office, 53 Corban Ave SE (Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm), at any of Cabarrus County's public libraries and high schools during regular hours. At public locations designated by special registration drives. Department of Motor Vehicles, Various agencies (Social Services, agencies dealing with people with disabilities, Employment Security Commission, Armed Forces Recruitment offices), Public locations including government offices, town halls, political party headquarters and Tucker Supply-Midland.
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Q: Where do I vote?
A: You will be assigned a voting place within the precinct where you live. A precinct will be assigned by our office when you register or change address and you will be notified by mail. You will receive a voter registration card before any election if you are a new voter or have made changes since the last election. The voter card will indicate the name and location of your voting place. You may also telephone the Elections Office for the location of your voting place (920-2860).
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Q: What are Primaries and General Elections?
A: In primaries in North Carolina, you vote only in the primary of the party with which you are affiliated. If you register unaffiliated you may be allowed to vote in a primary if a party allows unaffiliated voters to vote in their primary.
In the primary you NOMINATE party candidates and in a general election you ELECT officials for these offices:
United States Senator (6 year terms) United States Representative (2 year terms) Governor and other state officials (4 year terms) State Senate and State House (2 year terms) County Officials (4 year staggered terms)
In a presidential election year and every four years thereafter you also ELECT:
United States President and Vice-President
NC Governor and other State Officials
Municipal officials will be elected in odd years.
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Q: What is an Absentee Ballot? How do I vote Absentee?
A: ABSENTEE VOTING IN NORTH CAROLINA
Traditional Methods and New Options
As provided by the State Board of Elections from their Web Site: http://www.sboe.state.nc.us
Generally speaking, absentee voting is comprised of two methods by which registered voters may cast ballots other than the traditional method of appearing in person and casting a ballot on the day of the election. These methods are as follows:
- Absentee by Mail
- Absentee One-Stop
- In the office of the county board of elections, or
- If approved by the Cabarrus County Board of Election, in another location within the county designated as an Absentee One-Stop voting site.
The deadline for persons to register in order to be eligible to vote in an election is 25 days before the election.
Absentee by Mail
Any registered voter is authorized to vote by mail an absentee ballot in any primary or election conducted by the county board of elections. An excuse is no longer required.
The voter or the voter's near relative* may send a signed written request to the county board of elections office beginning 50 days prior to election day. Written requests must be received in the office no later than the Tuesday prior to election day.
Each request must be signed by the voter or the voter's near relative, and include the voter's name and address as they appear on the registration records, and the address where the ballot is to be mailed. It is helpful to include the voter's date of birth, the near relative's address and relationship to the absentee voter.
*A near relative, as defined by law, is a spouse, brother, sister, parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, mother-in-law, father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, stepparent, stepchild, or verifiable legal guardian.
If the voter is qualified, ballots will be mailed to the voter after receipt of the written request. The voted ballot must be received in the County Board of Elections office by 5:00 p.m. on the day before the election in order to be counted. ALL information requested on the absentee envelope MUST be filled out or the ballot may not be counted.
Absentee One-Stop (No Excuse)
In the county board of elections office
Absentee One-Stop voting has been available in county board of elections offices for years. The one-stop voting process permits qualified voters to vote absentee in person at the county board of elections. Now, voting by Absentee One-Stop no longer requires an excuse. One-stop voting begins on the Thursday day after the voter registration deadline and is available Mon - Fri from 8:00am to 5:00pm. One-Stop voting ends at 1:00 P.M. on the Saturday before the election.
The 2001 North Carolina General Assembly passed laws to amend the absentee voting process. N.C. General Statute was amended to allow voters to cast an Absentee One-Stop ballot in all elections without having to provide an excuse.
Voting "No Excuse" Absentee One-Stop
To be qualified to vote using this option in the county board of elections office or the One-Stop site, a prospective voter must be registered to vote in the county in which he or she is attempting to vote. For example, if a voter is registered and resides in County A, the voter may not vote at a one-stop site in County B.
When the voter presents him/herself to vote, the voter must state his or her name, residence address and, in a primary election, party affiliation. The voter then completes the application to vote absentee, votes the ballot(s), and returns the voted ballot to the election official or places the ballot in the voting equipment, as determined by the county board of elections plan.
Voting Equipment
Voting equipment will vary from county to county for the Absentee One-Stop sites. County boards of elections should be contacted for more information.
The State Board of Elections oversight Staff will be monitoring the additional Absentee One-Stop Voting sites across the State to ensure that required procedures are followed.
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Q: What is Curbside Voting?
A: If you are unable to enter the voting place because of age or physical disability, you will be allowed to vote either in your vehicle or near the voting place. Have someone enter the voting place and inform the election officials of your desire to vote in this manner or use our curbside alert bell.
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Q: What if I moved and failed to change my registration?
A: If you have moved within Cabarrus County and you failed to change your address by the registration deadline, there is a procedure that allows you to vote.
To Vote without delay in any local, state, national primary or general election, a voter must file a change of address at least 25 days prior to Election Day. If a voter moves within Cabarrus County and fails to file a change of address by the deadline, the voter may vote by going to the old precinct and obtain an "Election Day Transfer Form". The Voter will take this form to the new precinct or to the Cabarrus County Board of Elections by the voter. The form will allow the voter to vote in his/her new precinct.
The Voter may also go to the voter's new precinct or the Board of Election office without obtaining an "Election Day Transfer Form" and vote by provisional ballot.
Provisional Ballots are not counted on Election Day - the Board of Elections determines the eligibility of Provisional ballots at the canvass, which is at 11:00 a.m. on the 7th day after each Election. All qualified Provisional ballots are counted at that time by the Board of Elections Members and added to the official results of the election.
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Q: Who are my elected officials?
A: Elected officials are listed in the Public Officials Directory.
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Q: Who are the Board of Elections Board Members?
A: The current Cabarrus County Board of Elections Board Members are:
- R. Giles Moss - Chairman
- Carol Link Soles - Secretary
- Anne Shuping - Member
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Q: Who are the Board of Elections Board Staff?
A: The current Cabarrus County Board of Elections Board Staff are:
- Linda Grist - Director
- Christina Daniels - Assistant Director
- Lauren Hines - Elections Coordinator
- Lynn Farrell - Senior Election Clerk
- Tillie Jordan - Senior Election Clerk
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Q: What is the deadline for registration/changes?
A: The deadline to register, change party or change address occurs 25 days prior to each election.
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Q: Where is the Board of Elections located?
A: The Board of Elections Office is located at 53 Corban Ave. SE. It is a grey building with a dark blue awning, located at the corner of McCachern (the street the Post Office is on) and Corban Avenue. There is parking at the back, on the side of the Elections building, and across the street.
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Q: What are Provisional Ballots?
A: A Provisional ballot is a voted ballot, which is preserved and protected in a certification envelope until the voter's qualifications are determined. If the voter is determined qualified, the ballot is counted on Canvas Day. If the voter is determined not eligible the ballot envelope remains sealed.
The intent of fail-safe voting (provisional ballots) is such that those who are eligible to vote are allowed to do so, without disturbing the integrity of the elections. It also protects the integrity of the elections by not counting the provisional ballots of those persons not qualified to vote.
The Provisional Ballot:
- Obtains updated registration information on the voter,
- Allows voter to cast ballot,
- Intends to preserve the integrity of the election. It gives the county board of elections time to verify registration to see if there is substantial evidence within the office or through contact with the registering agency that the voter did indeed make application to register. The qualified registered votes will have their ballots counted on Canvas day.
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Q: What are Inactive Voters?
A: Inactive voters are those voters who do not have a verifiable resident address, as we have had numerous mailings returned to our office marked "undeliverable". The "Inactive" voters, if eligible, are still allowed to vote but will need to change their address with us so that we can assign them to the correct voting district.
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Cabarrus Links |
Q: Who can ride?
A: Anyone who lives in Cabarrus County can ride on Cabarrus Links. Persons using wheelchairs or other mobility devices are able to access these vans. Per state law, children 8 years old or younger and weighing 80 lbs. or less are required to use a child safety seat. Passengers must provide their own safety seats.
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Q: What is the cost?
A: A one–way trip on Cabarrus Links costs $1. Payment is by cash only. CK Rider bus line will honor the Cabarrus Links passenger ticket for transfer to other destinations in Concord or Kannapolis. Cabarrus Links also honors CK Rider passenger tickets for transfer to rural drop–off points.
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Q: Is the service door-to-door?
A: No. Cabarrus Links picks up and drops off passengers at designated public locations throughout the County. Check the schedule for routes and locations. Anyone who is physically unable to access Cabarrus Links and who needs transportation to medical appointments or other life–sustaining trips should call Cabarrus County Transportation at 704-920-2931 for information on door–to–door transportation.
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Q: How do I access Cabarrus Links?
A: Using Cabarrus Links is easy and is available to all Cabarrus County residents. Cabarrus Links vans operate Mondays through Fridays from 6:30 am until 7 pm except for designated holidays. Simply check the route schedule for the choice of destinations, then arrive at the pick–up location at least 5 minutes prior to the departure time. Remember to have the $1 cash–only fare for each one–way trip.
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Cooperative Extension Service |
Q: What is 4-H and how can I get my children involved?
A: 4-H is an informal educational club program for Cabarrus County young people, ages 5-19. The clubs are led by trained volunteers and meet throughout the county on neither a bi-weekly or monthly basis. Emphasis is placed on career exploration, project work, public speaking, community service, and leadership development. To find out the name of a club near you, call the Cooperative Extension Service at 792-0430.
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Q: Can we access Statewide Cooperative Extension Service information via the Internet?
A: Yes, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Home Page address is http://cabarrus.ces.ncsu.edu. There you will find the latest information on a wide variety of issues, ranging from family and consumer education to horticulture notes to employment opportunities. Many of our popular informational bulletins are loaded on the Internet and can be accessed and printed by the public. Give us a bookmark?
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Q: Can we access Countywide Cooperative Extension Service information via the Internet?
A: Yes, the Cabarrus Cooperative Extension Service Home Page address is http://cabarrus.ces.ncsu.edu. There you will find the latest information on a wide variety of issues, ranging from family and consumer education to horticulture notes to employment opportunities. Many of our popular informational bulletins are loaded on the Internet and can be accessed and printed by the public. Give us a bookmark?
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Department of Aging |
Q: Is there a membership fee to join the Senior Center?
A: No, there is no fee to utilize the Senior Center. Some classes and/or activities require nominal registration fees.
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Q: How can I find out about Senior Center/Department of Aging Activities?
A: Simply call the Department of Aging at (704) 920-3484 or pick up a copy of our bi-monthly newsletter, the SUNSET OUTLOOK, which is included in the Independent Tribune on the last Sunday of every other month.
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Q: How is the Department of Aging different from the Council on Aging?
A: The Department of Aging is a division of the Cabarrus County Government that is responsible for providing a wide variety of human services for local older adults. We coordinate such programs as Transportation, Nutrition, Weatherization and Housing / Home Improvement, In-Home Services, Senior Health Insurance Information Program, Information and Referral, operate the Cabarrus County Senior Center and serve as an advocate for the rights of older adults. The Council on Aging is a local organization that is composed of local older adults that represent most Senior Citizen groups throughout our community. They work very closely with the Department of Aging and serve as a support group for the departmental programs. The mission of the Cabarrus County Council on Aging is to advocate for the needs of older adults in Cabarrus County, to promote programs and services available to older adults in Cabarrus County, to recommend needed programs and solicit funding resources for these projects, and to support through volunteer assistance and financial resources the services provided for the Cabarrus County Department of Aging.
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Q: How can I find out what services are available and how to access services for older adults?
A: Call the department of aging at (704) 920-3484 and we will gladly assist you. Obviously, we cannot provide all services to meet all needs. However, we work closely with all agencies that provide senior services. We offer "Informational Referral" services and will assist in your efforts to locate and access any given service.
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Department of Commerce |
Q: Can we access Cabarrus Department of Commerce information via the Internet?
A: Yes, the Cabarrus Department of Commerce information is here.
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Department of Social Services - Adult and Family Services |
Q: Adult Day Care/Day Health Services - What are Adult Day Care/Health Services?
A: A provision is made for the applicant to attend an organized program where activities and services are provided up to 6 hours per day. The program is designed to assist the adult with social, physical, emotional, and independent needs. When Day Health is needed a health assessment is completed and assistance can be given with feeding, ambulating, toileting and periodic monitoring of vital signs, weight, dental, nutrition and person hygiene.
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Q: Adult Day Care/Day Health Services - How do I qualify for this Service?
A: The participant will need to apply to the program within his community. Also, an application for assistance should be made with the local Department of Social Services. Eligibility is based upon the participant's/family's need for the service. An assessment will be completed and if eligible, authorization given to attend the program. A Cost Share Schedule will be applied and the participant may have a small fee for the service.
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Q: Adult Day Care/Day Health Services - How long can I remain in the Program?
A: After authorization, the participant can remain in the program until the service is no longer needed.
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Q: Adult Foster Care Placement Services - What type of assistance will I receive should I need Placement Services?
A: A case manager will assist the applicant, 18 years and older, or his family to locate a licensed Nursing or Assisted Living facility that will accept the applicant for placement. The applicant will be admitted as a resident of that facility.
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Q: Adult Foster Care Placement Services - What is needed for Placement in a Facility?
A: A FL-2 medical form is needed for placement. This form must be completed and signed by the applicants' physician. It contains medical information about the applicant and the level of care that is needed for placement in the Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility. Medicaid is also needed to assist in the cost of care provided by the Nursing home. Special Assistance is needed for Assisted Living Facilities. An applicant should apply for these benefits through the local Department of Social Services.
A family member or responsible party willing to assist the applicant in the moving, signing and understanding of the admission procedure is also helpful.
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Q: Adult Protective Services (APS) - What is APS?
A: This program evaluates reports concerning elderly and disabled adults, 18 years of age and older, to determine whether abuse, neglect or exploitation has occurred. If there is a need for protection, services are implemented to prevent further maltreatment.
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Q: Adult Protective Services (APS) - What type of situation meets APS Criteria?
A: Any disabled adult, who has been abused, neglected or exploited and is at risk for further mistreatment meets the criteria.
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Q: Adult Protective Services (APS) - What does Abuse, Neglect or Exploitation mean?
A: Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation are defined as follows:
- Abuse: Unusual and unexplained bruises, fractures, burns, any willful infliction of pain, injury, or mental anguish by a caretaker.
- Neglect: Self-neglect or caretaker neglect. Failure to provide adequate food, shelter, clothing, and attention to personal needs which may cause physical/mental harm.
- Exploitation: Illegal or improper use of a disabled adult or his resources for another's benefit.
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Q: Adult Protective Services (APS) - Can I give information about an APS situation and be anonymous?
A: The reporter can be anonymous or give their name. The name of the reporter is confidential and protected from civil and criminal liability.
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Q: Adult Protective Services (APS) - How long does it takes to complete an APS evaluation?
A: A referral for abuse or neglect will be completed within 30 days. A referral for exploitation will be completed within 45 days.
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Q: Adult Protective Services (APS) - How will I know that something has been done regarding my complaint?
A: A letter will be sent to the reporter, if they give their name, at the completion of the evaluation explaining the findings of the evaluation. Also, if the disabled adult is in need of protection and he or his legal representative agrees, services will be implemented. Court action maybe needed in some cases when the adult lacks capacity to give consent to services.
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Q: At-Risk Services (ARS) - What is At-Risk Services?
A: It is a program to help elderly and disabled adults access supportive services in the community. ARS offers Case Management services to locate, coordinate and monitor appropriate services, which may include Personal Care Services, Roving Aides Services to assist with essential shopping and errands, and arranging for incontinent supplies or medical equipment.
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Q: At-Risk Services (ARS) - What are the eligibility requirements to participate in ARS?
A: You must be an elderly or disabled adult (over age 18) who resides in Cabarrus County; qualify for Medicaid; be determined to need care assistance with such activities as personal care; meal preparation, laundry, shopping, housekeeping, etc. and you have limited caregivers or no consistent caregiver to assist.
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Q: At-Risk Services (ARS) - How do I get At-Risk Services?
A: You or your representative should contact the Department of Social Services Medicaid Intake Unit, either in person or by telephone, to request an At-Risk referral. A social worker will visit your home to assess your specific care needs. If you are determined eligible, a service plan is developed with your input to include the services you need. A social worker will continue to work with you to provide ongoing case management.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What is the CAP/DA Program?
A: CAP/DA stands for the "Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults." It is a program to help elderly and disabled adults with health care needs to receive services and support in their own homes instead of entering a nursing home. CAP offers services such as: Case Management; In Home Aides; Adult Day Health; Oral Nutritional Supplements; Incontinence Products; Medication Boxes; Medical Supplies; Telephone Alert; Respite for Caregivers; Home Delivered Meals; and Home Mobility Aids such as grab bars, non slip surfaces, handheld showers, widening of doorways, and ramps.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What are the eligibility requirements to participate in CAP/DA?
A: You must be an elderly or disabled adult (age 18 and older) who resides in Cabarrus County; qualify for Medicaid; be determined to need care equivalent to that offered in a nursing home; be in need of help with personal care; and have a safe home environment.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - How do I get on the CAP program?
A: You or your representative should contact the Dept. of Social Services Medicaid Intake Unit, either in person or by telephone, to request a CAP referral. Your doctor must complete a form (FL-2) which indicates that you need nursing home level of care. A social worker and nurse will visit your home to assess your specific care needs. If you are determined eligible, a plan of care is developed with your input to include the services you need to remain at home. Services in the plan are then arranged with community providers. A social worker will continue to work with you to provide ongoing case management once your CAP services begin.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What is Medicaid?
A: Medicaid pays medical bills for certain people with limited income and resources. Medicaid is similar to private health insurance in that there is an ID card to show eligibility and deductibles must be met in certain situations (income-based). In order to determine eligibility for Medicaid, an application for Medicaid assistance must be made at the Department of Social Services in your county of residence.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What is the FL-2?
A: A FL-2 is a medical form that is completed by the applicant's physician. The form identifies, age, current diagnoses, general patient information, and current medications.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - If I only have Medicare am I eligible for CAP?
A: No, in order for someone to receive services under the CAP program he/she must be determined to be Medicaid eligible.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - Who can make referrals for CAP services?
A: Referrals are received from clients, family, friends, physicians, hospitals, DSS, nursing facilities, mental health agencies, home health agencies, and aging agencies.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What if I am placed in a nursing home for rehabilitation, will I be able to come back onto the CAP Program?
A: Yes, an individual can come back onto the program as long as he/she meets the qualifications for the program. It can take up to 60 days to process re-entry to the program. Therefore, it is important to let your case manager know of your discharge date as soon as possible.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - How is the amount of In-Home Aide hours determined?
A: By discussing with the client what tasks are essential to meet his/her needs and approximating how long each task will take to complete for the client. This constitutes how many hours per day the aide will work to meet daily needs and remain within the budgetary constraints for CAP.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - May I increase the amount of In-Home aide hours I receive?
A: In-home aide hours are based individually, as well as by budget limitations. The amount of hours in the plan of care must be justified by client need and assure the client remains within budget limitations set by the State.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - May I have an electric wheelchair?
A: As with all durable medical equipment, the physician determines medical necessity. The cost of the electric wheelchair and any other equipment used in the home must be included in the CAP budget. It is advisable to question the CAP case manager as to how the equipment will impact their eligibility for the program.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What is the CAP/C Program?
A: CAP/C stands for the "Community Alternatives Program for Children." It is a program to help children under the age of 19 with health care needs to receive services and support in their own homes instead of entering a nursing home. CAP offers services such as: Case Management; CAP-C In Home Aides; Adult Day Health; Private Duty Nursing; Oral Nutritional Supplements; Incontinence Products; Medication Boxes; Medical Supplies; Telephone Alert; Respite for Caregivers; Home Delivered Meals; and Home Mobility Aids such as grab bars, non slip surfaces, handheld showers, widening of doorways, and ramps.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - Can a parent be paid for taking care of his or her own child?
A: No, since a parent is legally responsible for the child, compensation cannot be received.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - What type of Medicaid must a child be receiving in order to qualify for CAP/C?
A: A child must be eligible for Medicaid Aid to the Disabled or Blind.
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Q: Community Alternatives Program (CAP) - Are the parents' assets and income counted for CAP/C?
A: No, only the child's income and assets are counted in determining Medicaid eligibility for the CAP/C program.
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Q: Crisis Assistance - How can I get help with my utility bills?
A: You may apply for assistance with your utility bill at your local Department of Social Services. Bring the following information for all household members with you when you apply: a disconnection notice, proof of wages, and proof of medical conditions and medications.
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Q: Crisis Assistance - Who is eligible for Emergency Assistance?
A: Working families with a child under age 18 who are still in high school may potentially be eligible for Emergency Assistance. To be eligible, at least one adult must be working and the family must have received an eviction notice. The family income must be sufficient to meet ongoing family expenses.
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Q: Crisis Assistance - What is LIEAP?
A: LIEAP stands for Low Income Energy Assistance Program. This program is offered once yearly. Applications are taken at your local Department of Social Services each November. Income and resource amounts from October are used to determine eligibility to receive a one-time assistance check. Eligible applicants will receive a LIEAP check issued the first full week in February. LIEAP checks are to be used to assist with heating costs.
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Q: Crisis Assistance - What type of assistance can I receive for heating or cooling services in an emergency situation?
A: The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) provides assistance to low-income households who are in a cooling or heating crisis situation. The household must meet income guidelines and include a citizen of the United States or a qualified alien. |
Q: Crisis Assistance - What type of assistance is there with paying for eyeglasses?
A: You may apply for Medical Eye Care at your local Department of Social Services if you have been found ineligible for Medicaid. The Medical Eye Care program is a state program that may be able to assist you in purchasing eyeglasses. |
Q: Day Care - What type of assistance is available to help pay for child care expenses?
A: The Department of Social Services offers a childcare program that helps families pay for childcare for the following reasons:
- Working parents or parents looking for work
- Parents in school (completing your GED or high school diploma or enrolled in an accredited program of least 12 credit hours per semester)
- The child is receiving child protective services
- The child needs care to support child welfare services
- The child has developmental needs.
Please call your local Department of Social Services for an appointment.
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Q: Day Care - Will the Department of Social Services pay for all of my childcare expenses?
A: Day care fees are determined by the family's income and household composition.
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Q: Day Care - What income is counted when determining eligibility for assistance with childcare?
A: To determine eligibility for childcare, we must count the parent's gross income, any form of child support, social security benefits, and in-kind contributions. This list is not all-inclusive.
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Q: Day Care - How many hours a week do I have to work to be eligible?
A: To meet the working requirement for assistance with childcare, the working parent must work 30-40 hours weekly, Monday through Friday.
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Q: Day Care - Who chooses my childcare provider?
A: Parents retain parental choice of childcare providers as long as the provider is state licensed or county certified.
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Q: Day Care - How do I find quality child care providers in my area?
A: The North Carolina Division of Child Development issue licenses based on a star rating to distinguish the levels of quality provided by childcare centers and homes. The Cabarrus County Department of Social Services has a contract worker from NC Child Care Resources, Inc. available on site to assist with referrals.
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Q: Employment Services - What is Work First?
A: Work First is North Carolina's TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) plan to help families move off of welfare and into jobs. To help families, Work First provides employment services; supportive services and time limited cash assistance to families with children under age 18 who meet income and resources guidelines.
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Q: Employment Services - How can I find out if I am eligible to receive a Work First check?
A: Cash assistance is no longer an entitlement program. There are a number of different factors that are assessed. The age of your youngest child and if you have a medical disability that prevents you from working outside the home are examples of areas assessed. Attend a Work First Orientation class and talk with a social worker, who will assess your particular situation. Call and ask to speak with an Employment Services Social Worker to register to attend the next Work First Orientation class.
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Q: Employment Services - How will DSS help me find a job?
A: The Cabarrus County Department of Social Services is fortunate to have a contracted worker from the Employment Security Commission located within our office who is able to assist clients looking for employment opportunities. This service is available to Work First cash recipients as well as anyone else seeking assistance finding employment.
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Q: Employment Services - Can I get transportation to look for a job?
A: There may be a way to obtain transportation to look for a job for a limited time span. To find out more, you must attend a Work First Orientation class and be assessed by a social worker.
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Q: Employment Services - Can I get transportation to go back to school?
A: The Department of Social Services does not provide transportation for those people for the purpose of attending school.
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Q: Employment Services - My children's father doesn't pay child support. Can I receive cash assistance?
A: Work First cash assistance is not an entitlement program. If interested in cash assistance, attend a Work First Orientation class and talk with a social worker, who will assess your particular situation. Call and ask to speak with an Employment Services Social Worker to register to attend the next Work First Orientation class.
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Q: Employment Services - Is there any type of assistance if I am experiencing a temporary crisis with employment?
A: The Department of Social Services must offer the Benefit Diversion program. It provides families with one-time cash assistance and up to three months of Medicaid to meet needs which are related to maintaining or accepting employment or needs that have arisen due to a temporary break between employment. If order to qualify for the Benefit Diversion program, you must attend a Work First Orientation class and talk with a social worker, who will assess your particular situation. Call and ask to speak with an Employment Services Social Worker to register to attend the next Work First Orientation class.
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Q: Guardianship Services - What is Guardianship Services?
A: This service is for individuals who have been determined to have limited mental capacity and need assistance in making day-to-day decisions for themselves. There is a legal proceeding and if the person is declared incompetent, the Clerk of Superior Court will appoint a Guardian to be the decision-maker for the incompetent adult (ward).
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Q: Guardianship Services - What is involved in the Guardianship process?
A: The Guardianship process involves:
- Anyone who knows the person may file a written request (a petition) with the Clerk of Superior Court alleging that the adult should be declared incompetent.
- After the petition is filed a date and time for a hearing is set.
- Copies of the petition and the time for the hearing is served on the person (respondent) and also given to all interested parties.
- Medical, Psychological, Social Work, or other evaluations may be required.
- The Clerk of Court considers all the evidence presented and gives a decision as to the respondent's competency.
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Q: Guardianship Services - What are the duties of the Guardian?
A: The duties of the Guardian include:
- The Guardian of the Person takes responsibility and makes decisions for the Ward in regards to the medical, dental, legal and personal care needs.
- The Guardian of the Estate manages the wards income and property.
- The General Guardian has power to manage both person and estate for the ward.
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Q: Guardianship Services - When does the Guardianship end?
A: All Guardianship services to the Ward ends with his death or when competency is restored.
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Q: Home Care - What programs provide in-home aide service?
A: In-home aide services can be provided to clients through the CAP/DA program, Personal Care Services (PCS), or the Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG) program.
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Q: Home Care - What are the requirements for Personal Care Services (PCS)?
A: To be eligible for Personal Care Services (PCS), a person must have Medicaid and need assistance with personal care tasks in the home.
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Q: Home Care - How many hours per day can I receive an in-home aide if I receive Personal Care Services (PCS)?
A: Personal Care Services (PCS) is limited to 3½ hours per day. However, the monthly limit is 60 hours per month.
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Q: Home Care - How many hours per day can I receive an in-home aide if I receive services through CAP/DA or Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG)?
A: The CAP/DA or HCCBG case manager and not the Home Care unit determine the number of hours received through these programs. The amount of hours allowed for the in-home aide is based on the needs of the client as well as budgetary and other issues.
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Q: Home Care - What types of tasks can an in-home aide do for a client?
A: An in-home aide can assist a client with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, hair care, skin care, toileting, and transfers. The in-home aide can also assist with essential housekeeping and cooking.
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Q: Home Care - Can the in-home aide run errands for me?
A: The in-home aide cannot leave the home. However, there are separate in-home aides that are specifically assigned to do errands such as grocery shopping and prescription pick-up. If needed, your case manager can add this to your plan of care.
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Q: Home Care - How do I apply for in-home aide services?
A: You cannot apply directly for in-home services. You must apply for CAP/DA, PCS, or HCCBG services. The first step is to contact DSS and speak with the Adult Services Intake social worker.
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Q: Representative Payee Service - What is Representative Payee Services?
A: This is a service to individuals who receive an income but who are unable to manage the income appropriately to ensure their daily needs are meet. Case management service is given to assist the client in basic money management, household management, consumer problems, family concerns, drug and alcoholism related problems.
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Q: Representative Payee Service - How do I apply for this Service?
A: An Adult Intake application will be needed to request the service from the Department of Social Services. A request to the income provider by the client to appoint the Department of Social Services, as their Representative Payee may be all that is required in some circumstances. However in others, a medical form is obtained from the income provider and submitted to the applicants' physician for completion. If the income provider approves the request, a Representative Payee will be appointed.
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Q: SA In-Home Program - What is the SA In-Home Program?
A: SA In-Home Program means Special Assistance In-Home Program. It is an alternative to adult care home placement when an assessment indicates an individual can remain at home safely with appropriate services. SA In-Home Program offers Case Management services to locate, coordinate, and monitor appropriate services, which may include Personal Care Services, Roving Aides Services to assist with essential shopping and errands, and arranging for incontinent supplies or medical equipment.
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Q: SA In-Home Program - What are the eligibility requirements to participate in SA In-Home Program?
A: You must be a disabled adult (over age 18) who requires adult care home level of care in a facility, but desire to remain in own home or in other private living setting, who reside in Cabarrus County and qualify for Medicaid for Special Assistance. You may be eligible for an additional SA/IH money payment which would allow you to remain safely in your home, which is intended to cover items such as food, shelter, clothing, and other daily necessities for the aged, and disabled adults who have income below poverty level.
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Q: SA In-Home Program - How do I get SA In-Home Services?
A: You or your representative should contact the Department of Social Services Medicaid Intake Unit, either in person or by telephone, to request a SA In-Home referral. Your doctor must complete a form (FL-2) which indicates that you need adult care home level of care. A social worker will visit your home to assess your specific care needs. If you are determined eligible, a service plan is developed with your input to include the services you need. A social worker will continue to work with you to provide ongoing case management.
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Department of Social Services - Child Support |
Q: What is the Child Support program?
A: The child support program can help locate absent parents, establish paternity for children born outside of marriage, establish child support obligations, collect and distribute child support payments and enforce support obligations.
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Q: Where do I apply for Child Support Services?
A: Residents of Cabarrus County may apply at the Cabarrus County Department of Social Services, 1303 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC. Applications can be obtained Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm or you may call 1-800-992-9457 to receive an application.
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Q: Do I have to receive Work First cash assistance in order to receive child support services?
A: Child support services are available to anyone who has physical custody of a minor dependent child in need of child support, regardless of income.
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Q: Is there a cost to apply for Child Support Services?
A: Depending on the applicant's income, there is either a $10.00 or $25.00 application fee for these services. There is no fee if the custodial parent receives public assistance or Medicaid.
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Q: What is a child support order?
A: The Court must issue a support order before a non-custodial parent can be made to pay child support. The Child Support Agency will first attempt to negotiate with the non-custodial parent to obtain a court order, which is called a Voluntary Support Agreement. A court appearance is not required for this action. If the non-custodial parent does not voluntarily provide support, a civil court action must be initiated to obtain a support order.
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Q: How is the amount of support determined?
A: The amount of support is based on the ability of the non-custodial parent to pay and on the needs of the children. The court has guidelines for determining the amount of child support. The Child Support Agency can provide a copy of these guidelines. The court may deviate from the established guidelines upon consideration of individual circumstances in a case.
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Q: Why is paternity important?
A: Paternity must be established before child support can be ordered. If the alleged father is willing to acknowledge paternity, then paternity can be established without going to court. If the alleged father denies paternity, then paternity tests can be used as evidence to determine whether the alleged father is in fact the biological father. Minor children are sometimes entitled to certain benefits in their father's name, such as Social Security benefits, veteran's benefits, and inheritance proceeds. Paternity must be established before these benefits can be received. The child support program provides legal services to establish child support and other rights for children born out of wedlock. Once paternity has been established, these children have all the legal rights of children who are born of a marriage.
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Q: What can I do to help my case?
A: Your case will proceed faster if you can provide certified copies of all court orders for your child support and all the non-custodial parent's payment history when you apply. Provide as much information as you can about the non-custodial parent, including address, place of employment, Social Security number, date of birth and copies of birth certificates. If you do not know the current employer, provide the name and address of the last known employer.
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Q: How are non-custodial parents located?
A: The agency relies on information provided by the custodial parent or caretaker of the minor children in locating non-custodial parents. The agency also utilizes automated resources that interface with records of the Employment Security Commission, the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Correction as well as other state and federal agencies to locate individuals.
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Q: What if the non-custodial parent does not make payments as ordered by the Court?
A: The Child Support Agency is responsible for enforcing child support payments when the non-custodial parent does not make child support payments as ordered by the court. The support payments must be at least thirty (30) days in arrears before court action can be initiated. Once the non-custodial parent is behind thirty (30) days, the Child Support Agency will issue a show cause notice for the non-custodial parent to appear in court to explain why they should not be found in contempt of the court order. Immediate income withholding is ordered in every child support order. Other methods utilized to collect child support payments are administrative income withholding, intercepting the non-custodial parent's tax refund, revocation of drivers, business and professional licenses.
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Q: What if the non-custodial parent resides in another state?
A: In cases where the custodial parent is a resident of North Carolina and the non-custodial parent resides in another state, the custodial parent can begin action for establishment of paternity or of a support order through the local child support Agency. This action is called the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). This procedure is also utilized when the non-custodial parent resides in Cabarrus County and the custodial parent resided in another state and the responding state requests assistance from Cabarrus County. The state requesting the action have little control over the time it takes to process a UIFSA action.
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Q: Where are child support payments made?
A: Child support payments must be mailed to North Carolina Child Support Centralized Collections at Post Office Box 900006, Raleigh, NC 27675-9006. It is important to include your name, social security number, MPI number, and case number on your check or money order. Once income withholding is initiated, employers are notified of the address to mail payments.
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Q: Where do I call to make inquiries about my case?
A: You may contact the Child Support Customer Service call center at 1-800-992-9457. A child support customer service representative will answer your call and assist you with most inquires regarding your child support case. In some cases, you will be asked to leave a phone number so your question can be referred to your local child support agent to handle. You may also access your child support case online at North Carolina eChild Support.
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Department of Social Services - Child Welfare |
Q: Case Planning and Management - What is Child Protection Services Case Planning and Management?
A: Child Protection Services Case Planning and Management is a legally mandated program provided to families who have a substantiation of abuse, neglect, or dependency.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - What is the purpose of Case Planning and Management?
A: The purpose of Case Planning and Management is to maintain the safety and protection of the child(ren) while helping the parents/caretakers learn more effective parenting practices.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - What does a Case Planning and Management Social Worker do?
A: The social worker provides, arranges, and coordinates intervention services that focus in child safety and protection. These services could include Piedmont Behavioral Healthcare, the Cabarrus Health Alliance, local physicians, Medicaid, Food Stamps, Crisis Assistance programs, Work First Family Assistance, Intensive Family Preservation Services, CSST, Northeast Medical, Northeast Psychiatric & Psychological and Cooperative Christian Ministries, etc. This listing is not all-inclusive.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - What are the goals of Case Planning and Management?
A: The goals of Case Planning and Management include:
- Maintain the safety of the child(ren)
- Strengthen the families
- Maintain the child(ren) in the home
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Q: Case Planning and Management - What is a Family Service Case Plan?
A: A Family Service Case Plan is a service agreement between the family and the Department of Social Services. The social worker and the family develop a plan listing objectives and activities that relate to the behavioral changes needed to promote safety and protection.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - How long is the Family Service Case Plan in effect?
A: The plan must be developed within 30 days of the substantiation of abuse, neglect, or dependency. It must be updated at least every 90 days. However, Family Service Case Plans can be revised at any time.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - How often does the social worker have direct contact with the family?
A: The social worker must see the parents/caretakers and the child(ren) at least two times per month. The family is normally seen more times than the mandated minimum.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - What are the documentation requirements?
A: The social worker must document each contact with the parents/caretakers and child(ren). They must also contact and document a minimum of two collateral resources. Family re-risk assessments and Strengths & Needs Assessments are done when a change occurs with the family, every 90 days at closure or transfer.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - When is a case terminated?
A: Cases are terminated when the parents/caretakers can provide a safe home and demonstrate their ability to do so.
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Q: Case Planning and Management - What happens when the safety and protection of the child(ren) cannot be maintained?
A: An Administrative Review Team staffing will be held and a decision based on the information from the social worker will be evaluated. A non-secure custody petition will be completed and the child(ren) will be placed in the custody of the Cabarrus County Department of Social Services if the safety and protection of the child(ren) absolutely cannot be maintained in the home. Family placements are always considered before placing a child in a foster home.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - What services are offered to help stabilize families who are in crisis and help to keep children in the home?
A: In the Intensive Family Services Unit, there are three programs designed to help parents keep children safely in the home. Those programs are Intensive Family Preservation Services and Home Based. Also, through a contract with Community Link, there is the Intensive Reunification Program.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - How do social workers in these programs work with families?
A: Because these cases are very crisis-oriented, the social workers in this unit are on call to families 24/7 to address issues, which place children at risk of out-of-home-placement. All of these programs are intensive in nature, meaning families are seen more often. The following are some services provided:
- The parents are taught parenting skills and strategies designed to alleviate or reduce the behavior problems of their children.
- The parents are provided with better coping techniques to help diffuse stress-producing situations
- These services are provided in the family's home setting, and counseling and supportive services are conducted with the entire family.
- Families are also linked with other resources to further meet their needs.
- The social workers work around the family's schedule. These services are very family-centered and build on the family's strengths and input.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - Are these services mandatory or voluntary?
A: The services are voluntary, since the family's commitment is crucial to the success of the service.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - What are Intensive Family Preservation Services?
A: Intensive Family Preservation Services are short-term, crisis intervention services and serve families who have extremely high at-risk issues that place children at imminent risk of removal from the home. The services last from four to six weeks, and contact with the family can be daily. Referrals are received from Mental Health, DSS, or the Department of Juvenile Justice.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - What are Home Based Services?
A: Home Based Services are crisis-intervention oriented, and the services last up to six months. Families are seen at least weekly. All referrals are received through the Department of Juvenile Justice for adolescents ranging from age 10 to 18. These children must be undisciplined or delinquent as determined by the Department of Juvenile Justice. For information regarding the referral process, call the Department of Juvenile Justice at 704-786-5611.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - What are Intensive Reunification Services?
A: Intensive Reunification Services are for parents who have children in DSS custody and the goal is reunifying the family. The Intensive Reunification Social Worker works with the parent on issues that caused the child to be removed from the home so that the child can be safely reunited with the parent(s). Referrals are received from the Foster Care Unit.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - What other services are offered to help children who have behavior issues or to help increase parenting skills?
A: The Guided Growth Group or the Adolescent Group is a program offered for middle school and high school age children who have behavior programs at school and/or at home. The sessions usually run concurrently with the school year. The Adolescent Group is held in a classroom setting after school hours from 3:30-5:30. The location of the Adolescent Group varies. Topics include effective communication and anger management, problem solving, and improved social interaction. Independent living skills are also addressed with the high school age group. To find out more about these services, contact the Intensive Family Services Unit Supervisor at DSS by calling 704-920-1400.
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Q: Intensive Family Preservation Services - Does the Department of Social Services offer any type of Parenting Classes?
A: Yes, parenting classes are offered. The Active Parenting Class for parents who have teenagers is held periodically. These classes meet once per week for six weeks. The time of the classes are 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Classes are held at the Department of Social Services. Childcare is provided. Referrals for these classed are received from DSS staff. Parents, who want to make a direct referral for themselves or find out dates when classes are offered, must contact the Intensive Family Services Supervisor. There are also parenting classes for parents with younger children. The Nurturing Parent Class, sponsored through Smart Start, is a class for parents with children 0 to age 3. There is also an In-Home Parenting Counselor who works in the homes with parents and their children. For further information, contact the Intensive Family Services Supervisor at the Department of Social Services. There is also an Active Parenting Class for parents with children age 2 to 12.
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Q: Foster Care - What is Foster Care?
A: Foster care is providing a safe, temporary place for children to live until they can be in a permanent home. Children of any age (up to age 18) may be placed in foster care.
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Q: Foster Care - What children are placed in Foster Care?
A: Children who are placed in Foster Care have been removed from their home by the Department of Social Services because a juvenile court judge and a social worker thought the children were not safe at home. These children have been abused, neglected, and/or children that fall under the dependency definition. A Judge through the recommendation of the children's Juvenile Court Counselor can also place children in foster care. These children have been adjudicated delinquent and/or undisciplined and are not following the court's order. Their parents are either unwilling and/or unable to make them follow the court's order.
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Q: Foster Care - What does the judge do to place children in Foster Care?
A: The Department of Social Services petitions the court for the removal of the children from their home at which time a judge issues an order for the children to be removed.
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Q: Foster Care - What reasons would children be placed in Foster Care?
A: Children are removed from their homes due to the following three reasons:
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Q: Foster Care - What is abuse?
A: When children are abused, they have been seriously hurt, either physically or emotionally. This may include any type of sexual abuse. The parent or someone else taking care of the children either hurt the children or allowed them to be hurt.
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Q: Foster Care - What is neglect?
A: When children are neglected, they have not received proper care or supervision. Examples of neglect may include the following:
- Children who do not receive necessary medical care.
- Children who are inadequately fed.
- Children who are inadequately clothed.
- Children who are inappropriately disciplined.
- Children who are left alone for long periods of time.
- Children who are exposed to drug use and abuse.
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Q: Foster Care - What is dependency?
A: When children are dependent, they have no adult who is able to take care of them. Dependency usually occurs when a parent dies, is sick, or cannot meet the needs of the child for some other reason, usually mental health reasons.
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Q: Foster Care - For what reason are most children removed from their home and placed into Foster Care?
A: Neglect is the reason most children are removed from their homes. |
Q: Foster Care - Are there different types of Foster Care?
A: Yes. The following are the four different kinds of Foster Care:
- Kinship Care
- Emergency Foster Care
- Family Foster Care
- Group Homes/Residential Facilities
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Q: Foster Care - What is Kinship Care?
A: Kinship care is when a relative can take care of the children. The court may allow the children to live with their aunt, uncle, grandparents, or another relative if an approved home study has been completed by the Department of Social Services.
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Q: Foster Care - What is Emergency Foster Care?
A: When the Department of Social Services takes custody of children, they may spend a short amount of time in emergency foster care. This may be a family home or a group home. The children can stay in these homes only for a short time.
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Q: Foster Care - What is Family Foster Care?
A: Family Foster Care is when the children will be taken care of by a family trained and licensed to take care of children who have been separated from their own parents.
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Q: Foster Care - How long are children in Foster Care?
A: Regardless of the type of placement the children receive, foster care is intended to be temporary. Foster care is not designed to be a permanent plan for children. If it is impossible for the children to go home, the social workers will work with the parents and court system to make other permanent plans for the children such as adoption or permanent placement in a relative's home. One year is a long time in the life of a child. Children need to be where they are going to grow up as soon as possible. The goal is for children to be returned to their families or placed in another permanent home within one year or less. By working with the social worker, the parent(s) can help the child's stay in foster care be as short as possible.
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Q: Foster Care - What does the family need to do to work with the social worker?
A: Every family enters into a Family Services Case Plan with the Department of Social Services. The Family Services Case Plan is like a social contract between the parent and DSS. This plan is based on the reasons the child(ren) were removed from the home. If the parent does everything on the Family Services Case Plan and makes their home safe, a judge will take that into account when deciding if the children may be returned home.
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Q: Foster Care - What types of things may be included on a Family Services Case Plan?
A: Depending upon the strengths and needs of a family's situation, the Family Services Case Plan may ask the family to do such things as:
- Attend counseling sessions
- Attend Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings
- Get and keep a job
- Find a safe, permanent place to live
- Attend parenting classes
- Make other changes in their home
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Q: Foster Care - Are there any special programs for adolescents in Foster Care?
A: Yes. There is a program called LINKS. This program is available to children in foster care who are between the ages of 13 and 21. The LINKS program was developed to help children with like skills and support systems. When children are ages 13 through 15, the focus of the program is on assessment and exposing children to opportunities for building the skills they need in order to be successful in life. The emphasis is on planning ahead and identifying resources. When children are ages 16 through 18, the assessment process continues but more activities and opportunities are available. Each child is assisted with the development of a personal support network. The LINKS program provides financial assistance to enable these young people to participate in special projects, activities and seminars. Children are assisted with career planning and part-time employment. Necessary services to assist with educational goals may be funded through LINKS. Young adults between the ages 18 and 21 may remain in foster care on a voluntary basis. The LINKS program can help them accomplish the goals that will enable them to live independently. Housing and other assistance may be provided. When young people leave foster care, they are encouraged to maintain contact with their social worker so that we can monitor their progress and provide services as needed. Outreach services may be ongoing for a period of time as long as this assistance is needed.
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Q: Adoptions - What is the purpose of the Adoption Program?
A: Adoption is the method provided by law to establish the legal relationship of parent and child between persons who are not so related by birth. The family and child would have the same mutual rights and obligations that exist between children and their birth parents. The primary purpose of adoption is to help children whose parents are incapable of assuming or continuing parental responsibilities to become a part of a new family.
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Q: Adoptions - What are the requirements of the Adoption Program?
A: The requirements for the Adoption Program are as follows:
- Complete a Pre-placement Assessment
- Ability to accept as a member of one's family a child not born into that family
- Can be a single (Male or Female) parent as well as a two parent family
- Must have fingerprint results of all household members 18 years old and over.
- Adequate income to meet their families needs
- Must be between the ages of 21 and 65 and a non-relative
- Family stability in their employment, marriage, emotional and physical health
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Q: Adoptions - How do I complete a Pre-placement Assessment?
A: Families, who wish to adopt special needs children and are able to identify a child in the Photo Listing Book or on the adoption website, may receive an adoptive pre-placement assessment at no cost through one of the private agencies. CCDSS Social Worker will also assist families in contacting agencies to achieve this service. Families who wish to adopt normal, healthy, young children (children up to age 10) will be referred to private adoption agencies for services. A booklet with adoption information and list of private agencies will be given to each family.
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Q: Adoptions - What types of Adoptive Placements are there?
A: There are three types of Adoptive Placements:
- Agency placements
- Relative placements
- Independent Placements
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Q: Adoptions - What is an agency adoptive placement?
A: In agency placements, the child is in the custody of the agency, either CCDSS or a private agency. The birth parents have voluntarily relinquished the child for adoption, or the parental rights of the birth parents have been terminated by court action. All of the children in the foster care system that need adoptive placements are in this category.
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Q: Adoptions - What is a relative adoptive placement?
A: Relative adoptive placements consist of the legal adoption of a child by someone to whom they are related by blood or marriage. Stepparent adoption is an example of this kind of placement.
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Q: Adoptions - What is an independent adoptive placement?
A: Independent placements occur when a birth mother and father place their child for adoption with a family they have selected. No agency is involved in the selection of the placement, but a pre-placement assessment and the report to the court must be completed by an agency in order for this adoption to be finalized.
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Q: Adoptions - What is Adoption Assistance?
A: Adoption assistance is provided for children with special needs to enable a family to meet the child's special needs. This includes a monthly subsidy payment, money for speech therapy, tutoring, developmental daycare or other services which would enable a special needs child reach their full potential and overcome their special needs. This subsidy also assists with the legal fees to complete an adoption. Medicaid also continues until the child is 18. Only children who have been in the custody of CCDSS or private agency are eligible for adoption assistance.
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Q: Adoptions - What is the legal process for adopting a child?
A: When a child is placed with an adoptive family, an adoption petition should be filed within 30 days from date of placement. The court will request an evaluation of the placement by CCDSS or a private agency and a report to the court is needed within 60 days after the court issues the order for the evaluation. An adoption can be finalized 90 days after placement but usually takes 90 to 120 days to be completed. A new birth certificate is issued by the State and this can take up to 6 months to a year. The final order of adoption legal order can be used until a new birth certificate can be issued.
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Q: Adoptions - What children in Cabarrus County have the greatest need for adoptive families?
A: Children in Cabarrus County with the greatest need for adoptive families include:
- Older children, 10 years old and older
- Sibling groups of 3 or more
- Minority groups
- Medically fragile children
- Children with severe emotional issues
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Department of Social Services - Economic Services |
Q: Food Stamps - What are Food Stamps and how are they issued?
A: Food Stamp benefits help low-income families purchase food. Food Stamp benefits are deposited into accounts at a bank. The benefits are then accessed at grocery stores using an EBT (electronic benefit transfer) card that works like a debit card.
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Q: Food Stamps - What are some of the items I am required to provide to apply for Food Stamps?
A: Proof of identification, social security cards, proof of resources (i.e. checking, savings accounts, etc.), check stubs for the month prior to application, verification of any other types of income, verification of day care expenses, proof of court-ordered child support going outside the home, proof of shelter expenses (i.e. rent, mortgage receipts) and proof of utility expenses.
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Q: Food Stamps - What is the income limits for Food Stamps households?
A: $1009 for households of 1, $1354 for households of 2, $1698 for households of 3, $2043 for households of 4, $2387 for households of 5.
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Q: Food Stamps - When will my application for Food Stamps be completed?
A: Emergency benefits must be completed within 7 days from your date of application. Applications that do not meet emergency criteria must be completed within 30 days from your date of application.
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Q: Food Stamps - What day of the month will I get my Food Stamp benefits?
A: Food Stamp benefits are deposited into your EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) account on the same day each month according to the last digit of your social security number, even if that day falls on a weekend or holiday. Your caseworker will explain this schedule to you.
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Q: Food Stamps - When will I receive my EBT card?
A: EBT cards should be received within 3-5 days after your Food Stamp case is completed.
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Q: Food Stamps - What do I do if I have a change in my situation?
A: Your caseworker will review what changes are required to be reported when you apply.
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Q: Food Stamps - I have received my EBT card, but how do I activate the card?
A: EBT cards can be pinned (activated) at the Department of Social Services Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm. You may use your EBT card immediately after it is pinned. You must bring identification (i.e. drivers license or picture ID) with you when you pin your card.
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Q: Food Stamps - Will I receive a new EBT card each month?
A: No. You use the same card each month. If your benefits terminate, you should keep your card. If you reapply, you may have your benefits deposited into the old EBT account. Be sure to let your caseworker know that you still have an EBT card. You can even keep your same pin number.
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Q: Food Stamps - What happens if I use the wrong pin number when I am shopping?
A: If you try to use the wrong pin number 4 times in a row your EBT card will not work anymore that day. You will have to wait until after 12:01am the next day to try again.
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Q: Food Stamps - How can I check my balance on my EBT card?
A: Call the customer service line at 1-888-622-7328. The number can be located on the back of your card. Any remaining balance at the end of the month is rolled over into the next month.
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Q: Food Stamps - Can someone else in my household use my EBT card?
A: No. Don't tell anyone your PIN number.
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Q: Food Stamps - What items can I purchase with my EBT card?
A: You may purchase any food items intended for human consumption except for prepared hot deli food.
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Q: Food Stamps - Why didn't I get the full benefits for the month I applied initially?
A: Food Stamp benefits are prorated for the month of application based on your date of application. For example, if you apply on 12/8/02, you would receive benefits from 12/8/02 through 12/31/02 if eligible.
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Q: Food Stamps - How is the amount of my Food Stamp benefits determined?
A: The amount of Food Stamp benefits you may receive are determined by the number of people in the household, the amount of income received by the people in the household, the household's shelter expenses and the amount of medical expenses you have to pay that are not reimbursed (persons 60 or older or disabled).
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Q: Medicaid - What is Medicaid?
A: Medicaid is a health insurance program for families and individuals whose income is so low that they cannot afford health care. It is a publicly funded program governed by federal and state laws.
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Q: Medicaid - How can I get Medicaid?
A: You can get Medicaid if you are a US citizen or qualified alien, live in North Carolina, have a Social Security Number or have applied for one,
and
You receive a check for one of these programs:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Work First Family Assistance (WFFA)
- Special Assistance for the Aged, Disabled or Blind (SAA, SAD or SAB)
or
Your countable income meets the requirements for one of the following categories:
- Aged (65 or older), blind or disabled persons (has a resource limit)
- Families with children under age 19 (has a resource limit)
- Children under age 21
- Single or married pregnant women
- Children receiving adoption or foster care assistance
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Q: Medicaid - What does Medicaid cover?
A: If you are eligible for Medicaid, you will receive a Consumer's Guide to North Carolina Medicaid Programs, which contains listing of covered services. This list is not all-inclusive and does change. For more accurate information, ask your medical provider or pharmacist or call the CARE-LINE at 1-800-662-7030. Information concerning covered services is also available on the Internet at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dma/consinfo.htm.
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Q: Medicaid - Why is one of my children eligible for Medicaid but the other isn't?
A: Medicaid is determined by comparing countable income to an income level for the number in the family. The income levels are different based on the child's age. Depending on each child's countable income and age, the children could be in different income levels.
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Q: Medicaid - What do I need to apply for Medicaid or North Carolina Health Choice?
A: You will need to provide certain verification so we can determine your eligibility for Medicaid or North Carolina Health Choice. If you don't have all the items listed, please apply anyway. Your caseworker will request the information required. The following is a listing of verifications often needed for Medicaid or North Carolina Health Choice applications:
- Birth certificates or other legal proof of age for children under age 21
- A copy of all pay stubs for the prior month
- Social security cards for all persons you are applying for
- Copies of all medical or life insurance policies for all persons you are applying for
- A list of all cars, trucks, motorcycles or any other vehicles you or anyone in your household own
- Most recent bank statements
- Current statements for any other source of income such as Social Security, retirement benefits, Veteran's benefits or child support
- Proof of alien status for applicants who are not US citizens
- Proof of pregnancy (a statement from your doctor or another health professional) if you are applying for pregnancy coverage
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Q: Medicaid - How do I let my doctor know that I have Medicaid?
A: When you are approved for Medicaid, you will receive a Medicaid ID card each month in the mail. You must take your current card with you each time you go to the doctor, hospital, pharmacy, or any other medical provider. Your Medicaid card is proof that you have coverage. It is very important to keep up with your Medicaid card! It works just like a health insurance card. If you do not show your card to the medical provider, they will not know Medicaid covers you and you may become responsible for paying the full cost of the medical bill or prescription.
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Q: Medicaid - What do I do if I lose my Medicaid card?
A: You may notify your caseworker if you lose your Medicaid card and request a replacement card. However, the replacement card will not have the pharmacy stub attached (adults only). Your Medicaid card is your proof that you have coverage. It is very important to keep up with your Medicaid card! |
Q: Medicaid - How long can I receive Medicaid after I am approved?
A: You may receive Medicaid as long as you continue to meet the requirements. Your caseworker will review your situation every 6 to 12 months depending on what type of Medicaid you receive. You must report all changes in situation to your caseworker within 10 days.
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Q: Medicaid - What do you mean by resources?
A: Resources are items owned by clients that are accessible such as checking accounts, saving accounts, retirement accounts, stocks, bonds, certificates of deposits. This list is not all-inclusive.
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Q: Medicaid - What is North Carolina Health Choice?
A: North Carolina Health Choice (NCHC) is North Carolina's health insurance program. It is funded with federal and state monies. This program can end or be frozen when funds are depleted. NCHC is a health insurance program for children under age 19 whose family's income is so low that they cannot afford health care. The children must not have other health insurance. NCHC is coverage through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, but is administered through social services because it is a publicly funded program governed by federal and state laws.
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Q: Medicaid - What does North Carolina Health Choice cover?
A: If you are eligible for North Carolina Health Choice, you will receive a Health Choice of Children Handbook, which contains listing of covered services. This list is not all-inclusive and does change. For more accurate information, ask your medical provider or pharmacist or call the Customer Services at 1-800-422-4658.
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Q: Medicaid - How do I let my doctor know that I have North Carolina Health Choice?
A: When you are approved for North Carolina Health Choice, you will receive one Identification (ID) card in the mail. You must always show your ID card each time you go to the doctor, hospital, pharmacy or any other medical provider. Your ID card is proof that you have coverage. It is very important to keep up with your ID card! It is your health insurance card. If you do not show your card to the medical provider, they will not know you are covered by NCHC and you may become responsible for paying the full cost of the medical bill or prescription. Each child covered by NCHC receives their own ID card.
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Q: Medicaid - What do I do if I lose my child's North Carolina Health Choice ID card?
A: In the event you lose your child's North Carolina Health Choice ID card, you must call Customer Services at 1-800-422-4658 to request another one. The Department of Social Services cannot replace a NCHC ID card.
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Q: Medicaid - How long can I receive North Carolina Health Choice after I am approved?
A: You may receive NCHC as long as you continue to meet the requirements. Your caseworker will review your situation every 12 months. You must report all changes in situation to your caseworker within 10 days. You cannot receive North Carolina Health Choice if you begin receiving coverage through another health insurance program.
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Q: Carolina Access - What is Carolina Access?
A: Carolina Access is a Medicaid managed care program. It is similar to a regular managed care program in that it links recipients with a primary care physician (PCP). This doctor must authorize services whenever the Medicaid recipient has a medical problem and is seeking services.
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Q: Carolina Access - Do I have to enroll in Carolina Access?
A: All Medicaid recipients must choose a Carolina Access doctor from a list of doctor's who participate in Carolina Access unless they receive Medicaid for Pregnant Women, Medicaid as a foster child or receive Medicare benefits through Social Security.
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Q: Carolina Access - The doctor printed on my Medicaid card is wrong. What do I need to do?
A: In the event that the doctor printed on your Medicaid card is incorrect, please notify your Medicaid caseworker or the Carolina Access Coordinator at your local DSS office as soon as possible to have this error corrected. Corrections can normally be made effective the following month. You should check your Medicaid card every month to ensure its accuracy.
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Q: Carolina Access - Why can't the doctor correction be made effective the day I report the error or change?
A: The Medicaid system in Raleigh only issues Medicaid cards once a month. Therefore, changes on a Medicaid card such as changing a Carolina Access provider can never be effective until the following month. If you have an urgent need before your corrected Medicaid card is effective, contact your Medicaid caseworker or the Carolina Access Coordinator at your local DSS for assistance.
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Q: Carolina Access - Do I need a referral from my primary care physician (PCP) in order to go to any other doctor?
A: You do not need a referral from your PCP to see a dentist or to get a routine eye exam. Eye exams that become anything other than routine will require a referral from your PCP. Some eye doctors will require a referral just to be safe.
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Q: Carolina Access - I just enrolled in Carolina Access when my Medicaid application was approved. Do I need to do anything special?
A: New enrollees with Carolina Access should get established with their PCP immediately! Don't wait until you are sick to try to become established with your PCP.
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Q: Carolina Access - Anything else I need to know about Carolina Access?
A: Take your Medicaid card with you when you have to go to the doctor. Call your PCP before seeing any other doctor. Call your PCP before going to the emergency room if it is not an emergency. Get a referral from your PCP before seeing any specialist.
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Q: Community Cares Plan (CCP) - What is CCP?
A: CCP is a grant-funded program designed in collaboration with healthcare partners and community services to provide increased access to health care and transportation services for the uninsured indigent in Cabarrus County.
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Q: Community Cares Plan (CCP) - What are the qualification requirements for CCP?
A: To receive coverage through the CCP grant, a recipient must be a resident of Cabarrus County, have no other health insurance coverage, not be eligible for Medicaid or Medicare, and meet certain income and resource guidelines.
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Q: Community Cares Plan (CCP) - What are the citizenship requirements for CCP?
A: Citizenship or legal immigrant status is not a factor for CCP.
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Q: Community Cares Plan (CCP) - How does a recipient receive medical care through CCP?
A: Enrollees in CCP are assigned to a primary care physician. Physicians in our community have "donated" slots in their practices for recipients of CCP. Patients are linked to primary care physicians just as Medicaid patients and others with health insurance are linked to a primary care provider. These physicians along with the Cabarrus Health Alliance and the Community Free Clinic are the providers for CCP.
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Q: Community Cares Plan (CCP) - How do I show proof that I am covered by CCP?
A: Enrollees in CCP receive a pink insurance card. Coverage is certified for up to six months at a time depending upon the particular case situation.
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Q: Community Cares Plan (CCP) - Where can I apply?
A: Patients can enroll in CCP at the following sites: Community Free Clinic, Logan Family Resource Center, Cooperative Christian Ministries, and the Cabarrus County Department of Social Services. For Clinic address and enrollment times, please call 704-783-1565.
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Q: Special Assistance - I live in a rest home. Can I get help paying for this care?
A: Older or disabled adults who need to live in an adult care home such as a rest home or mental health group home may be eligible for assistance paying for cost of care through the Special Assistance (SA) program. SA helps pay for room and board. Checks are sent monthly to eligible individuals living in licensed adult care homes (licensed by the NC Division of Facility Services).
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Q: Special Assistance - What do I need to apply for Special Assistance?
A: You will need to provide certain verification so we can determine your eligibility for Special Assistance. If you don't have all the items listed, please apply anyway. You may send someone to represent you. Your caseworker will request the information required. The following is a listing of verifications often needed for Special Assistance applications:
- Birth certificates or other legal proof of age
- A copy of all pay stubs for the prior month
- Social security cards for persons you are applying for
- Copies of all medical or life insurance policies persons you are applying for
- Most recent bank statements
- Current statements for any other source of income such as Social Security, retirement benefits, Veteran's benefits
- Proof of alien status for applicants who are not US citizens
- Information on assets such as property, stocks, bonds, IRAs, annuities and trust funds owned by you or your spouse
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Q: Special Assistance - How much income and resources can I have and still be eligible for Special Assistance?
A: The maximum income a person receiving Special Assistance can have is $1149 per month and have resources worth less than $2000. Some resources are not counted such as a homesite used as a primary residence (for certain cases), life insurance with face value of $10,000 or less, burial plots and burial insurance. This listing is not all-inclusive.
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Q: Special Assistance - Do I need to also apply for Medicaid?
A: Special Assistance recipients automatically receive Medicaid so there is not need to complete a separate application for Medicaid.
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Q: Special Assistance - How much is a Special Assistance check?
A: The General Assembly sets the maximum amount Special Assistance recipients can receive. The General Assembly also sets the maximum rate Adult Care Homes can charge for room and board. This amount is currently $1084 per month for Special Assistance (SA) recipients. The amount of a recipient's SA check is determined by taking the maximum rate minus the recipient's total monthly countable income and a standard $46 personal needs allowance.
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Department of Taxation - Tax Collection |
Q: When are Real Estate and Personal Property taxes due?
A: Real Estate and Personal Property taxes are due yearly on September 1st.
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Q: When should taxes be paid to avoid interest?
A: Taxes should be paid on or before January 5th to avoid interest. Property taxes levied for the 2007-08 fiscal year (commonly referred to as 2007 taxes) are payable at par (without interest) through January 7, 2008. Should a state holiday or weekend fall on the 5th, taxes must be received or postmarked on the next business day.
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Q: What is the interest from January 6th (or the day after par) to January 31st?
A: Interest from January 6th (or the day after par) to January 31st is 2% on the balance and 3/4% interest each month thereafter.
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Q: What if I don't receive a tax bill?
A: A bill is generated and mailed for payment each year. You are responsible for payment even if you do not receive the bill.
Reasons for not receiving a tax bill:- Incorrect address (make sure you keep your address current with this office). Tax bill was lost in the mail.
- If property was bought after January 1st the bill goes to the owner as of the first of the year. For purposes of collecting delinquent ad valorem taxes assessed on real property under G.S. 105-366 through 105-375, the term "taxpayer" is defined as the owner of record on the date taxes become delinquent and any subsequent owner of real property if conveyed after that date.
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Q: How do I change my mailing address for tax bills?
A: To change your mailing address for tax bills complete the Change of Address Form and return it to the County Assessor.
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Q: When taxes are delinquent can you make payment arrangements?
A: Yes. Payment arrangements can be made for delinquent taxes, but arrangements must be maintained to avoid other action.
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Q: When will property be advertised in the paper?
A: Property is advertised in the paper in March of each year
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Q: If I have payment arrangements will property still be advertised in the paper?
A: Property will be advertised even if you have payment arrangements. Taxes must be paid in full to avoid advertisement. If the property was sold during the year and the taxes are not paid in full, both the buyer's name and the seller's name will be advertised.
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Q: What actions may be taken if I don't pay my taxes or make arrangements?
A: Actions that may be taken if you don't pay your taxes or make arrangements may include, garnishment of wages, rents and/or other money due you, attachment of bank accounts, seizure/levy of vehicle, account turned over to the Sheriff, account turned over to a credit agency, foreclosure of property and debt setoff of income tax refunds.
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Q: What if I sold the property and I get a tax bill?
A: Tax bills are mailed to the taxpayer that owned the property on January 1st and you should forward the tax bill to the new owner.
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Q: What if I get a tax bill and my mortgage company is supposed to pay it?
A: We issue a copy of the tax bill to both the escrow company and the taxpayer, if a copy has been mailed to the escrow company, your copy will indicate that it is a taxpayer copy and that your mortgage company has been notified. If your bill does not indicate this you need to forward a copy of your bill to your mortgage company.
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Q: Why do I pay county taxes when I live in the city?
A: You live in the County of Cabarrus and receive county services as well as city services therefore you pay both county and city taxes.
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Q: How do I obtain tax receipts for my income taxes?
A: To obtain tax receipts for your income taxes:
- Keep original bill for your records and only return payment stub with payment.
- Access our inquiry system and click item 4 for Tax Billing Inquiry.
- Come by the Tax Collector's office and obtain duplicate receipts.
- Send self-addressed stamped envelope requesting duplicate tax paid receipts.
This information cannot be given over the phone.
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Q: When are Motor Vehicle taxes due?
A: Motor Vehicle Taxes are due on the first day of the fourth month following the expiration/renewal of your tag or following the month in which a new tag was purchased.
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Q: What if I receive a bill on a vehicle I no longer own?
A: If the tag was turned in the bill may be prorated. If the tag was transferred to another vehicle you would owe this bill and will receive a bill on the new vehicle after the tag is renewed.
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Q: What information do you need to prorate taxes on a motor vehicle after it's sold?
A: For taxes to be prorated on a motor vehicle after it's sold, you need to send a receipt from the Tag Office showing when the tag was turned in, a copy of a bona fide Bill of Sale or other document clearly indicating that the vehicle has been sold or otherwise been disposed of. If you have moved out of North Carolina, a copy of that state's current registration on the car.
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Q: What is a Tax Block on vehicles?
A: When taxes are not paid by the 1st day of the 4th month after the bill becomes due, a tax block is placed on your DMV record which prevents you from renewing your tag until the tax is paid.
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Q: If the vehicle does not run, do I still have to pay taxes?
A: Yes. If you do not tag the vehicle it must be listed with the County Assessors Office during the January listing period.
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Q: Can I wait to pay my car taxes when I pay my real estate taxes?
A: No. You may not wait to pay your car taxes when you pay your real estate taxes unless it is due within that month. Otherwise, a bill must be paid in the month shown on the bill to avoid a block of your DMV record, interest, and possible enforced collections.
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Q: Why do I have to pay fire tax and school tax on my vehicle?
A: Fire tax by statute applies to all property tax and has always been charged on vehicles. As of 1993 vehicles were billed separately from real estate bills thus making this charge more noticeable.
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Department of Taxation - County Assessor |
Q: When should I expect my tax bill for my vehicle?
A: Expect the tax bill for your vehicle approximately 3 months after you have renewed or bought a new tag.
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Q: Can I appeal the value of my vehicle?
A: Yes. You have 30 days from the bill date to request a review of the value. You may call us at 704-920-2166 to schedule an on-site appraisal or you may make a written appeal addressed to:
Cabarrus County Assessor's Office
Motor Vehicle Section
PO Box 707
Concord, NC 28026-0707
Your appeal should include a mileage statement, proof of damage, etc. Internet values are not accepted.
If you are not satisfied with the results of this review you may file an appeal with the Board of Equalization and Review within thirty days of the date you were notified of the Assessor's decision.
Download Board of Equalization & Review Appeal Data (using Adobe Acrobat Reader®).
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Q: I no longer own this vehicle; do I still owe this tax bill?
A: Yes. You are billed on the vehicle you had when you renewed your tag. If you have disposed of the vehicle and turned your tag into DMV, and have retained the necessary proof, contact the County Collector's Office at 704-920-2119 for a proration of taxes.
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Q: What is personal property?
A: Personal property consists of and is not limited to: boats and motors, jet skis, mobile homes, aircraft (inc. hot air balloons and gliders), all unlicensed (untagged) automobiles, race cars, trucks, trailers, campers, motorcycles and motor homes.
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Q: When do I need to list personal property?
A: We begin listing personal property on January 2nd. The last day to list or postmark the listing form is January 31st or if this day falls on a weekend or a State Holiday, the next Business Day.
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Q: If I still own the same personal property as listed last year, do I still need to list?
A: Yes. Personal property must be listed each year.
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Q: When do I let you know that I have sold my personal property?
A: You can report that you've sold your personal property during the listing period. All personal property must be listed by the owner as of January 1.
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Q: When will I receive the bill for my personal property?
A: Bills for personal property are usually mailed in July of each year.
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Q: How/when may I appeal the value of my individual or business personal property?
A: All appeals must be in writing to the Cabarrus County Assessor's Office, PO Box 707, Concord, NC 28026-0707 within 30 days of the tax bill date, a notice of discovery or a value notice.
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Q: I have started a new business in the County, when and where do I need to list?
A: The listing period for business personal property begins on the first business day of January and extends through January 31 or if this day falls on a weekend or a State Holiday, the next Business Day. All business personal property listing forms must be physically received in the Tax Assessor's Office or received by mail with a US Post Office post mark stamped not later than January 31. Business personal property listing forms may be obtained in the Tax Assessor's office in the County Governmental Center, 65 Church Street SE, Concord, NC or at www.cabarruscounty.us/Tax/listrequirements.html. For more information, please call 704-920-2176.
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Q: May I get an extension on listing my business personal property?
A: Yes. Any business wanting an extension of time to file a business personal property listing form must do so in writing. The request must be received for approval with a US Post Office post mark not later than January 31. The extension period will not extend beyond April 15, if this day falls on a weekend or a State Holiday, the next Business Day.
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Q: What if the business fails to list timely with the Assessor's office?
A: If a business fails to apply for and receive an extension, and lists after the month of January, a 10 percent penalty will be applied to the total taxes due. Also, a business that has requested an extension of time, but fails to list by April 15, will also be penalized 10 percent of the tax amount.
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Q: Is my tax listing subject to audit?
A: Yes. All tax listings are subject to audit for tax compliance.
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Q: What does the real estate assessed value represent?
A: All property, real and personal, shall as far as practicable, be appraised or valued at its true value in money and with respect to real property as of the effective date of the last countywide reappraisal. The words "true value" shall be interpreted as meaning market value; that is, the price estimated in terms of money at which the property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither being under any compulsion to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of all the uses to which the property is adapted and for which it is capable of being used (N.C.G.S. 105-283).
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Q: When was your last revaluation and when can we expect another?
A: Our last revaluation was effective January 1, 2004. The county is typically on a four year revaluation cycle. The next one will be effective for January 1, 2008.
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Q: When do I need to let your office know about my new construction?
A: You must list any changes in your real estate during the month of January. You will need to list all new buildings, improvements and additions along with your cost and the percent complete as of January 1st. You need to let us know if you have demolished or removed any improvements.
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Q: How do I appeal the value you have on my house and land?
A: You may appeal the value of property by completing the Request for Review form attached to the Notice of Assessed Value or by writing your concerns to the County Assessor, PO Box 707, Concord, NC 28026-0707. An appraiser from our office will review your request. At that time he or she will either make a change in your value or make no change. If you disagree with their decision, you may request an Application for Hearing with the County Board of Equalization and Review. All appeals must be filed before the Board of Equalization and Review adjourns or within thirty days of receiving a Notice of Assessed Value. The first meeting of the Board of Equalization and Review must be held no earlier than the first Monday in April and no later than the first Monday in May. Actual times and dates will be advertised in the local newspaper. If you are dissatisfied with the Board's ruling you may appeal to the State Property Tax Commission in Raleigh, NC. The final appeal is to the NC Court System.
Download Board of Equalization & Review Appeal Data (using Adobe Acrobat Reader®)
Download Property Tax Commission Appeal Data (using Adobe Acrobat Reader®)
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Q: What are considered valid reasons to appeal my assessed value?
A: Valid reasons to appeal your assessed value include:
Valuation Decisions - Grounds for appealing "valuation" decisions are generally:
- that the property has been appraised at a figure in excess of its true value in money; or
- that the property is appraised at a greater percentage of its true value in money when compared to other similar property in the county; or
- for personal property, that inappropriate trend schedules have been applied to calculate values. An increase in value, itself, is not a basis for appeal nor is your ability to pay.
Listing Decisions - Grounds for appealing listing decisions are:
- the property is not taxable; or
- the property has been assessed against the wrong person; or
- procedural requirements have not been met.
Penalty Decisions - In order to have grounds for appealing penalties, the taxpayer must be able to prove that their listing was made in a timely fashion according to NC General Statutes and only after the tax receipts have been prepared (reflecting such penalty).
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Q: What is the Use Value Assessment Program and what are the requirements?
A: The Present Use program (Farm Use or Land Use) is a state mandated program designed to give tax relief to specific landowners and their property that is being soundly managed in the production of an agricultural, horticultural or forest commodity. There are four types of requirements that must be met in order to qualify for the program:
- Ownership: You must have owned the property on four previous January 1 of the year subsequent to making application in order to qualify.
- Land: There must be at least one tract that meets the qualifying tract requirements of five acres for horticultural applications, ten acres for agricultural applications and twenty acres for forest application.
- Income: Property must produce an average of $1,000 of gross income for the subsequent three years of initial ownership of qualifying property. The income requirement does not apply for forestry present use if not part of a farm unit (but a sound management plan filed with this office must be strictly followed).
- Sound Management: A program of production designed to obtain the greatest net return from the land consistent with its conservation and long-term improvement.
Use Value Assessment program qualification requirements are detailed in G.S. 105-277.3: www.ncga.state.nc.us/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByChapter/Chapter_105.html
Present Use Compliance Review
In accordance with G.S. 105-296(j), the Assessor must annually review at least one eighth of the parcels in the county classified for taxation at present-use value to verify that these parcels qualify for the classification. By this method, the assessor must review the eligibility of all parcels classified for taxation at present-use value in an eight year period. The period of review is based on the average of the preceding three years' data.
Download Program Overview or Application (using Adobe Acrobat Reader®)
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Q: What qualifications do I have to meet to receive the Elderly/Disabled Exemption?
A: You must be at least 65 years of age on January 1st or totally and permanently disabled; have an income* for the preceding calendar year of not more than $19,700 (the income requirement normally changes each year by a cost of living adjustment) for 2006 applications; finally you must reside on the property.
*Income is defined as the adjusted gross income, as defined in section 62 of the Internal Revenue Code, plus all other moneys received from every source other than gifts or inheritances received from a spouse, lineal ancestor, or lineal descendant. For married applicants residing with their spouses, the income of both spouses must be included, whether or not the property is in both names.
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Q: If I receive the Elderly/Disabled Exemption, am I exempt from paying any taxes?
No. You are not exempt from paying any taxes if you receive the Elderly/Disabled Exemption.
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Q: What are the benefits of receiving the Elderly/Disabled Exemption?
Property taxes, the greater of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) or fifty percent (50%) of the appraised value of your residence, will be exempt. Residence includes the dwelling, up to one acre of land and any auxiliary buildings.
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Q: Do I have to reapply each year for the Elderly/Disabled exemption?
No, but you must sign and return your listing form in January of each year, and you are required to notify the Cabarrus County Assessor's Office if your income is over the amount set for the tax year or you are no longer a permanent resident of your property. All applicants are subject to audit every four years and are required to provide additional information at that time.
Download Program Overview and Application (using Adobe Acrobat Reader®).
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Department of Taxation - Land Records |
Q: What is the difference between a tax map and a survey or plat?
A: A survey/plat is drawn by a professional surveyor for a specific purpose and may or may not be recorded.
A tax map is a compilation of recorded deeds and surveys drawn to represent and inventory all parcels in the county for tax and other county uses.
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Q: How do I get a tax map of my property?
A: You have several options to get a tax map of your property:
- From the Cabarrus County GIS website http://gis.cabarruscounty.us/parcelinformation
- In the Cabarrus County Governmental Center, Land Records Office at 65 Church Street SE in downtown Concord. Hours are M-F 8 am to 5 pm.
- By mail or fax. Contact the Land Records Department at 704-920-2127.
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Q: Do you keep copies of surveys in your office?
A: Yes and no. All recorded surveys are filed with the Register of Deeds Office. Generally, we do not have unrecorded surveys on file but occasionally do get one from a property owner and may keep it in a file for future reference.
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Q: After a document is recorded, how long until property updates on the internet?
A: After a document is recorder, it takes approximately 30 days for the property to be updated on the internet.
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Q: What if I don't think the map of my property is correct?
A: If you do not think the map of your property is correct, bring information such as a survey, deeds, etc. to the Land Records Office and review it with our staff. The Land Records Office is in the Cabarrus County Governmental Center, 65 Church Street SE, Concord, NC. You can also mail us a letter explaining what is wrong along with copies of a survey, deeds, etc. to: Cabarrus County Land Records, PO Box 707, Concord, NC 28026-0707. We will review the situation and, if necessary, make corrections.
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Q: What is a Life Estate?
A: A Life Estate is a type of ownership where there is a Life Tenant and a Remainderman. The Life Tenant owns the property while they are alive, and it automatically passes to the Remainderman at the time of the Life Tenant's death. For more information, consult with an attorney.
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Q: How do I change/correct the name on my property?
A: If you have sold the property, the name will be changed automatically after the deed is recorded.
For misspellings, contact the Land Records Office for a correction. The name(s) MUST be spelled correctly on your deed. If it is not, please consult an attorney.
For legal name changes done by the courts, please bring or send a copy of the court documents to the Land Records Office.
If you have married or remarried and would like the name changed on your property, a new deed is required. Please consult an attorney. We CANNOT accept a Marriage Certificate to change your name; it must be done by deed or legal name change.
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Q: How do I find my property lines, property dimensions, acreage, etc.?
A: The most accurate way to determine the location of property lines, line dimensions, or acreage is to consult with a Land Surveyor. You can obtain a tax map that shows some of this information FOR REFERENCE ONLY. Tax maps are not legal documents or proof of ownership, but a representation of recorded legal documents for purposes of inventory, taxation, and general county use.
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Q: Do you have a telephone number for a property owner?
A: No. We consider property owner telephone numbers private information and do not give out that information. We suggest trying the telephone book or an internet search if you need a phone number.
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Q: Who owns the road to my house and can someone stop passage?
A: Public roads are property of the NC Department of Transportation and no one except for the Department of Transportation may block them. Ownership of private roads varies, and we recommend consulting with an attorney for more information.
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Q: Can I get a copy of your data for all or part of the county?
A: There are different datasets available for download from the Cabarrus County GIS website http://gis.cabarruscounty.us/parcelinformation.
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Q: Can you recommend an attorney or land surveyor?
A: No. We cannot recommend an attorney or land surveyor. We suggest you talk with friends and family, check the phone book, look on the internet, or other means to find an attorney or land surveyor to meet your needs.
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Department of Taxation - Foreclosure |
Q: What are Foreclosure Sales?
A: Foreclosure Sales are properties sold due to delinquent tax liens. The County opens bidding at the amount equal to taxes plus legal costs. Anyone may offer an amount over the County's bid and obtain ownership upon completion of a 10 day upset bid period.
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Q: May I purchase tax lien certificates from the Tax Collector's Office?
A: No. NC State law prohibits the sale of property tax lien certificates.
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Q: Are properties mortgage company, city, or sheriff's office foreclosures?
A: These sales are generated from delinquent tax liens ONLY. They are NOT related to any mortgage company, city, or sheriff's office foreclosures. The Tax Administration Office has no knowledge of foreclosure proceedings being conducted by a mortgage company, city or sheriff's office.
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Q: How do I acquire a list of properties and foreclosure sale dates?
A: The Tax Office does not maintain or provide a mailing list of these properties. When foreclosure properties are ready, the sale dates are posted on Foreclosures.
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Q: Where are foreclosure sales conducted?
A: Foreclosure Sales are held on the Courthouse Steps, 77 Union Street South, Concord, NC, 28025.
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Q: On what days and at what times are foreclosure sales held?
A: Foreclosure sale dates and times are randomly selected.
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Q: How much is required as a deposit on the sale day?
A: Foreclosure sales require a deposit of 5 to 20 percent of the highest bid on the sale day (as set out in the Notice of Sale).
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Q: Will Cabarrus County accept written or telephone bids?
A: Only bids from auction attendees at the foreclosure sale will be accepted.
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Q: What type of payment is accepted for a deposit on the sale day?
A: Only cash, money orders or certified funds are accepted for a deposit on the sale day.
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Q: Does Cabarrus County offer financing?
A: Cabarrus County does not offer financing.
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Q: Will I be paid interest for funds on deposit if I am not the highest bidder?
A: No earned interest is paid for funds on deposit.
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Q: Where do I go to place an upset bid?
A: Foreclosure sale upset bids must be submitted in person at the Cabarrus County Courthouse, 77 Union Street, Concord, Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, Room 104. The court case number must be provided to the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court in order for the record to be accessed. The court case number is available on Foreclosures.
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Q: What is the required minimum for an upset bid?
A: Foreclosure upset bids require a 5% increase over the last bid, with a minimum increase of $750.
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Q: Does the 10-day upset bid period include weekends?
A: The day after the foreclosure sale is recorded counts as Day 1. Saturday and Sunday are also counted; however, if Day 10 falls on the weekend or a holiday, the next working day shall be counted as Day 10.
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Q: How do I find out if the 10-day upset period has closed out?
A: Inquiries regarding close out status of foreclosure sales, must be made in person at the Cabarrus County Courthouse, 77 Union Street, Concord, Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, Room 104.
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Q: When is full/final payment expected?
A: Final payment on a foreclosure sale shall be due in the foreclosure attorney's office upon delivery of the Commissioner's deed and no later than 30 days after completion of the 10-day upset bid period.
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Q: What kind of deed will I receive if I am the final bidder at tax sale?
A: A Commissioner's Deed will be issued for foreclosure sales. Unless otherwise stated in the Notice of Sale, all other liens with the exception of current year taxes, if applicable, will be eliminated when the Commissioner's Deed has been issued and recorded.
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Geographical Information Systems |
Q: What internet browsers are supported?
A: Although we try to test our pages in various browsers, we are using Internet Explorer 6.0. You can determine what version you are using by clicking Browser Info. Please notify us of complications with different browsers so we may try to resolve these issues.
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Q: How do I access the Interactive mapping website?
A: Simply click on the Mapping link and a new window will open. Note: If you have software installed that blocks popup windows, this may not work correctly.
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Q: How long does it take to display a map?
A: The length of time depends on many factors like your connection speed and the number of other people connected to the map server.
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Q: What if the map displays too small or does not show at all?
A: Try clicking the Refresh or Reload button on your browser. Sometimes this will correct the problem.
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Q: Why are there no text labels displayed or some text is missing on the map?
A: Text is only visible at certain zoom levels. Zoom in to display more detailed text.
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Q: How do I print my map?
A: Use the Print button provided in the map application and it will reformat the map into a template in another window that should fit on an 8.5x11 printable document. There is also a reporting function which will print a map and associated tax information for selected parcels.
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Q: Are there any Tips for Searching?
A: If you are having difficulty finding what you are looking for, try being less specific. If you are searching by Owner, try searching by last name only. If you are searching by Address, try entering the street only (Do not forget to hit the Look up button). If all else fails, manually zoom in to find what you are looking for.
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Q: How to do a Quick Search?
A: This function, as the name implies, lets a user search for an item with minimum required input. Search for fields such as Parcel PIN, Property Owner Name, Street, etc. The Lookup option provides the user with a drop down list of possible values for search items e.g. Owner Name, the user will get a list of all Property Owners, and by clicking on "Search" will map the selected item.
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Q: How to find an Address
A: The find address tool locates a property by municipal address. This tool is found under Search Tools on the left side of the map panel. To find an address, follow the steps below:
- Click on "Find Address" in the search tools on the left side of the map panel
- Enter the address number in the Address # field and enter the street name in the street name. Click the "lookup icon" to get a list of similar street names. Note: To avoid getting a large number of street names in the lookup list, the Administrator may have set a minimum number of characters to be entered before lookup will be performed.
- Click on find address and the map panel will be updated with the selected address centered in the map panel
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Q: How can I Save My Maps and load them back?
A: The user can save his/her favorites maps using the Save My Map option, which is available under the Map Tools. Once you do any search and map your search or selection, then you can chose this option and name your map with any name you like. This will allow you to refer back to your saved maps, which will save your time and effort. To load saved maps, click on Save My Map and then Saved Maps, click on the drop down menu and select the map you saved and then click load.
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Q: How to show your location through a hyperlink?
A: URL can be used in your personal/corporate websites to enable users to view your location. URL can be pasted in Word Documents, Emails etc. Step-by-step Procedures To Generate URL:
- Please define the location you need through "Search Tools" or "Navigational Tools (Zoom In/Zoom Out)".
- Once the location is defined, please click on "Generate URL", under the advanced tools section; then the Generate URL dialog will appear.
- Here the user can enter any Label that he/she wants to display on the Map.
- Click on "Copy URL" button to copy URL to Clipboard.
- The above URL can be utilized in the source code of your websites or emails wherein, by clicking the URL a browser window opens and displays the location.
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Q: How can I change my Map Size?
A: Below the map panel in the Scale/Preference panel are 5 icons for changing the map display. Note: The application will remember your settings until the next time you login to the application.
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Q: How can I manage my Map Contents?
A: This option is available under Map Tools. Each map tab (user category) has different contents which change when you switch between tabs. Each tab provides a specialized grouping of the map layers. To manage the map contents just check the box next to the groups that you would like to view in the Map and click apply. Also, you can select all and clear all.
Note: some layers might not appear because of the scale that you are currently viewing.
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Q: How to add a point?
A: This functionality allows the user to add points and labels to a Map. Users may want to add points, highlighting and/or labeling prior to printing or e-mailing a map. Note: The added symbols are only temporary and are not stored anywhere. Click on:
- Add my point
- Enter the label name and click "apply"
- Click a location on the map where you want to add the point
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Q: How to Measure Areas and Distance?
A: The Measure Tool on the Map Tool bar can be used to measured distances or areas on the map. Measurement units can be defined as meters, feet, yards or kilometers. Once the Measure Tool is selected, the user can define the points that outline the area by using mouse clicks. Line or text symbols are provided as visual aids. As you continue to add points, the total area and perimeter results are updated. Click the Clear Selection Tool to reset the selection.
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Health Alliance / Health Department |
Q: Can we access Cabarrus Health Alliance information via the Internet?
A: The Cabarrus Health Alliance Home Page address is http://www.cabarrushealth.org.
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Library |
Q: What is the Cabarrus County Library?
A: The Cabarrus County Library is the public library serving Cabarrus County. It is comprised of four library facilities located in Concord, Harrisburg, Kannapolis and Mt. Pleasant.
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Q: Who operates the Library?
A: The Cabarrus County Public Library is a department of Cabarrus County Government. It is funded by local and state tax revenues as well as private donations.
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Q: How can the Library be accessed?
A: The Library can be accessed with the following numbers:
| Library |
Phone |
Fax |
| Concord |
(704) 920-2050 |
(704)782-3822 |
| Harrisburg |
(704) 920-2080 |
(704)455-2094 |
| Kannapolis |
(704)920-1180 |
(704)938-3512 |
| Mt. Pleasant |
(704)436-2202 |
(704)436-2202 |
Library Web site address: http://www.cabarruscounty.us/library
Library Email address: Library@cabarruscounty.us
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Q: What are the hours of operation?
A: The Library hours of operation are as follows:
| Library |
Hours |
| Concord (Main) |
Monday-Thursday 9:00AM-9:00PM
Friday-Saturday 9:00AM-5:00PM |
| Harrisburg Branch |
Monday - Thursday 10:00AM - 8:00PM
Friday 10:00AM - 5:00PM
Saturday 10:00AM - 2:00P |
| Kannapolis Branch |
Monday-Thursday 9:00AM-8:00PM
Friday-Saturday 9:00AM-5:00PM |
| Mt. Pleasant Branch |
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10:00AM-6:00PM
Tuesday & Thursday 10:00AM-8:00PM
Saturday 10:00AM-2:00PM |
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Q: Where are the Libraries located?
A: Main Library in Concord is located at 27 Union St. North in downtown Concord. It is located across Union St. from Central United Methodist Church and is the next door neighbor of CCB Bank. A parking lot is located behind the Library and can be accessed via a driveway to the north side of the Library.
Harrisburg Library is located at 201 Sims Parkway in the Harrisburg Town Park. Sims Parkway is off Highway 49 opposite Morehead Road in downtown Harrisburg. There is a traffic light at the intersection. Parking is available at the Library.
Kannapolis Branch is located at 850 Mountain St. in Kannapolis. It is located next to the YMCA off West "C" St. Parking is available in a lot shared by the Library and the YMCA.
Mt. Pleasant Branch is located at 8556 Cook St. in Mt. Pleasant. It is located next to the Mt. Pleasant Physicians' office. Cook St. is off North Main St. between NC Highway 49 and NC Highway 73. Parking is available in the front of and also behind the Library.
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Q: What are the requirements for a Library card?
A: Library cards are issued to patrons aged five and older who are residents of Cabarrus and Rowan Counties. Parents or legal guardians must sign for children aged 15 or younger. Before issuing a card, the Library requires proof of identity and residence. Preferred identification is a North Carolina Motor Vehicle Operators License or I.D. card with current address. Other forms of identification accepted are voter registration card or social security card plus one of the following: current telephone bill, current utilities bill, or a checkbook showing current address.
A non-resident card is available at an annual fee of $ 15.00 per year.
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Q: Can I register to vote at the Library?
A: Mail-in Voter registration forms are available at all Libraries.
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Q: Can I pick up IRS forms at the Library?
A: From mid-January through the April 15th tax filling deadline, the Libraries stock a variety of the most frequently used IRS forms. After April 15, forms which may be photocopied are available in the Information and Reference department. These forms can also be accessed through the Internet at www.irs.gov.
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Register of Deeds |
Q: What is the Register of Deeds Office?
A: The Register of Deeds office is a county governmental agency where all land related documents are recorded and maintained so that the public is made aware of their existence. Other documents recorded, issued and maintained are as follows: birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, marriage certificates, UCC's, subdivision plats, veterans discharges, notary public appointments.
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Q: Who do I see in the Register of Deeds Office and what are the office hours?
A: The office staff at the front counter as you enter the Register of Deeds office will be more than happy to answer whatever questions you may put to them. It is better if you personally visit the office. However, if you cannot, you may obtain certain information over the phone. Since there are kinds of information that can only be answered by an attorney it would not be feasible to have the information given to you by one which is not an attorney. Basically, the Register of Deeds office is a recording agency only and therefore the information it gives out is limited to that which is contained in the records. If you call, the number is (704) 920-2112. The Register of Deeds office is open to the general public during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding holidays observed at the direction of the Board of Commissioners. You should arrive early enough so that you may conclude your visit by 5 p.m.
Those applying for a marriage license should be in the office by 4 pm. In 1997, Cabarrus County Commissioners passed a resolution to stop recording documents at 4:30 pm.
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Q: What is a Deed?
A: A deed is an instrument by which the buyer obtains title to the piece of property being sold. A deed comes in many forms. The most common source of passing title is called a warranty deed. The seller warrants that he or she has a good and clear title and guarantees that his predecessors have no interest in the title. There is also a quit-claim deed. This is used to obtain a release from a person who is believed to have some interest or claim to the property. By this form of deed the grantor "quits" any claim he might have. All deeds must contain a legal description - a method of geographically identifying a parcel of land, which is acceptable in a court of law.
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Q: May I make out my own Deed?
A: Yes, you could, but the Register of Deeds and staff always recommends the retention of an attorney. The Register of Deeds office is a recording agency and therefore cannot author deeds or answer those questions which pertain to legal matters. NC General Statute 84-2 prohibits a Register of Deeds from practicing law while in office, even though he or she may be an attorney.
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Q: Can I record property in the Cabarrus Register of Deeds Office if the property is not in this county?
A: No. The property or part of it has to be located in Cabarrus County.
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Q: Can the Register of Deeds Office tell if I have a good clear title?
A: No. Attorneys, professional title examiners or abstractors use the records in our office as well as searching records in other offices to determine if the title is good and clear.
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Q: What other kinds of records would I find in the Register of Deeds Office?
A: Besides deeds, deeds of trust and UCCs, there are leases, plats, honorable discharges from the armed services, powers of attorney, corporate records, marriage license, birth, death records and many other documents. The Register of Deeds also maintains a record of Notary Commissions in Cabarrus County.
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Q: How far back do the records go?
A: The earliest records in the Register of Deeds office, written in elaborate manuscript, date back to the 1700s when Cabarrus County was formed from portions of Mecklenburg County.
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Q: What is Uniform Commercial Code?
A: Uniform Commercial Code, more commonly known as UCC, is a code developed for uniform filing on personal property throughout the USA. Like "uniform" attempts, fees and other things are different, but the basic concepts of security regulations are more uniform. The filing of a UCC Financing statement is what perfects or secures the loan on consumer goods or personal property. UCC filings are indexed by debtor's name and by file number. Effective July, 2001, the Register of Deeds Office will only record UCC's that pertain to fixtures, as-extracted collateral and timber to be cut. All others will be recorded at the Secretary of State's Office in Raleigh.
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Q: What if I lose my Deed?
A: The primary evidence of ownership of land is not so much the deed itself as the recording of the deed. Once recorded the original deed is returned to the new owner who usually deposits it with his or her important papers. If your deed is misplaced or lost, a copy may be obtained from the Register of Deeds office and may be certified with its official seal. The certified copy may then be kept among the owners personal records. Don't panic if you can't find your deed...if you recorded it with this office, we'll always have a copy.
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Q: Does a Deed have to be recorded?
A: A deed should be recorded as promptly after the transaction as possible. Failure to record a deed could render the transfer or mortgaging of the property impossible and create numerous legal difficulties. There is no time limit on recording most type of deeds.
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Q: What is a Lien?
A: Many times the owner of property may owe money to various creditors. The lien allows the creditors a means of preventing the property from being either sold or obligated until the debt is satisfied. Among the many types of liens are tax liens (for non-payment of taxes) and mechanics liens. Mechanics liens for labor and materials furnished in construction on land are filed in the Clerk of Court's office. Judgments are also filed in the clerk's office. All liens are encumbrances against property.
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Q: What happens to a document when it is brought to the Register of Deeds?
A: There are a number of steps taken when a document is brought or mailed in to be recorded before it is mailed back to the concerned party. The document is first evaluated for obvious errors and recordability and the correct fee is ascertained. Then it is temporarily logged and later given a document number after which a book and page number is stamped on each page and checked again. The information for each document recorded is then entered in the computer. From this information the indexes are maintained. Each day the preceding day's recordings are imaged for the record. A copy is sent to the North Carolina Department of Archives for backup purposes. The recording fees are set by state law. The fee for instruments in general is $12 for the first page, $3 each additional page and $2 for the certification (probate). Section 29.7 of the 2008 Appropriations Act increased the fee for "filing a deed of trust or mortgage" from $12 to $22 for the first page, and $3 for each additional page. Session Law 2008-102, § 29.7. The fee applies to a deed of trust or mortgage registered on or after October 1, 2008, regardless of the date on which the instrument was executed or acknowledged. The statute makes no distinction based on whether the deed of trust or mortgage was previously recorded, so the extra fee apparently applies to a rerecording of a deed of trust or mortgage. The statute specifically refers to "a deed of trust or mortgage," which indicates that the extra fee would not apply merely because a different kind of document is related to an already recorded deed of trust or mortgage, such as would be the case with a satisfaction instrument or an amendment to a recorded deed of trust. Sub-division plats are $21.00 for each page. When property is sub-divided certain requirements are necessary to meet planning and zoning requirements and maps should be signed off in the Planning and Zoning Department.
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Q: What are Excise Stamps?
A: A fee of $2.00 per $1,000 of the purchase price is mandated by state law. If you pay $50,000 for the property, then $100.00 is added to the recording fee. Half of this fee is kept by Cabarrus County and the other half goes to the State of North Carolina.
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Q: What is meant by 'INDEXES'?
A: An index is the system by which a document can be located after recording. The Register of Deeds office has several "time-framed" indexes available. If you are not familiar with the North Carolina Minimum Indexing Standards, please ask the staff for assistance. Our index from 1983 to present and document images since 06/16/2001 is now on our new web site at www.cabarrusncrod.org
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Q: How long will it take for a deed or other document to be returned?
A: After processing and imaging, the documents are sorted and envelopes addressed ready to be put in the mail four to five days after recording.
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Q: Is it difficult to locate the deed to my land?
A: The Register of Deeds office has a section referred to as the Grantor and Grantee Index. Grantor means the seller and Grantee the buyer. Once you ascertain the date your property was purchased you use the Grantee book containing that date, and then you locate your name under that date. Once you locate your name in the Grantee books it will refer you to a Book and Page number. The names are arranged alphabetically since 1968. These books are numerically placed in the land records vault. Your deed can be copied and may be certified for a fee of $5.00 for the first page plus $2.00 for each additional page. If you have a Deed of Trust (this would be located in the Grantor Book under your name) it may be certified for the same fee. Photo copies are $0.25.
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Q: What if I don't recall when the land was purchased, how do I find the deed?
A: If you cannot remember the date when the land was purchased you can check with the Land Records Office and they can tell you the transfer date from the address or legal description of the property. Then you can proceed to locate the name contained in the Grantee book that has the proper date.
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Q: Can I locate the Deed of Trust on my land in the Register of Deeds Office?
A: Yes, but you must determine the approximate date that the deed of trust was given. Once you have determined this, you locate the index book containing that date in the Grantor index section. The index book will give you the page and book numbers where you locate your deed of trust.
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Q: Are Marriage License, Birth and Death Certificates issued by the Register of Deeds Office?
A: Yes, the marriage license is $60. If the marriage is taking place in North Carolina, a license may be issued in any county and taken to another county for the ceremony. The marriage license should be returned to the county of issuance. You should telephone for detailed information. Certified birth, death and marriage certificates are issued only to the proper person or immediate family members. You must have identification when obtaining certified copies. "Application for Certified Copy of Vital Records" form is available online. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader® software to view, download, or print the forms.
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Q: Who manages the Cabarrus County Register of Deeds office?
A: The Register of Deeds Office is administered by a person called the Register of Deeds. The Cabarrus County Register of Deeds has one assistant and eight deputies that perform various duties.
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Q: Who is the Register of Deeds?
A: The Register of Deeds is an elected official for a four year term who makes certain that the documents are recorded properly according to the laws of the state and maintains and preserves these records. The Cabarrus County Register of Deeds is Linda McAbee.
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Q: Where is the Register of Deeds Office located?
A: The office is located at 65 Church Street SE, in the Governmental Center, Concord NC, 28025.
Phone 704-920-2112 Fax 704-920-2898 Email LFMcAbee@cabarruscounty.us*
*(Pursuant to the Freedom of Information-Privacy Acts (FOIPA) and North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 132, Public Records, this electronic mail message and any attachments hereto, as well as any electronic mail message(s) that may be sent in response to it are considered public record and as such are subject to request and review by anyone at any time).
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