As Crossover Looms, Lawmakers Consider Menards Rebate Program for Property Tax Relief
Under proposal, North Dakotans would receive Menards rebates to spend at any one of the popular home improvement store albeit with some limitations
BISMARCK, ND — With North Dakota’s legislative session approaching its critical crossover deadline, lawmakers searching for a way to provide property tax relief have landed on a practical, no-nonsense solution: Menards rebates.
Under the proposed Save Big on Property Tax initiative, instead of receiving a reduction on their property tax bill, North Dakotans will receive Menards in-store credit, ensuring that homeowners can reinvest their savings in essential items such as bulk lumber, discounted patio furniture, and an oddly specific selection of decorative barn stars.
How It Works
The rebate system will function just like Menards’ famous 11% rebate program:
Instead of a direct tax reduction, property owners must pay their full property tax bill upfront, then mail in a rebate form along with a self-addressed stamped envelope to a mysterious P.O. Box in Wisconsin.
Six to eight weeks later, they’ll receive a Menards rebate check, which can be used on anything in the store—except gift cards, and for some reason, milk.
Seniors 65+ are eligible for double rebates if they agree to only shop on Tuesdays.
The rebates will never expire but must be spent all at once in a single transaction, no exceptions.
A Win-Win for North Dakotans
Supporters of the plan argue that while the rebates don’t technically lower property taxes, they do provide much-needed relief—especially for homeowners who need a lifetime supply of insulation, a truckload of shop towels, or a suspiciously large quantity of PVC pipe.
“This is the kind of North Dakota ingenuity we’re known for,” said North Dakota Representative Eric Murphy. “Would people rather just see their tax bill lowered? Maybe. But now, they can take that money and buy a shed! And if they time it right, they can get a free 5-pack of tape measures with purchase.”
Critics Raise Concerns
However, some critics argue that the plan doesn’t actually make property ownership more affordable and instead forces people to spend money at Menards whether they need to or not.
“The average North Dakotan can’t pay their mortgage with in-store credit for a birdbath and 17 cans of spray paint,” says North Dakota House Minority Leader Zac Ista. “I’d rather just get a tax break.”
Others have pointed out that Menards rebate checks can only be spent at Menards, leaving those who don’t live near a store in a tough position.
Governor’s Office Weighing Options
Governor Kelly Armstrong has not yet taken an official stance on the proposal but has signaled “an openness to any plan that makes property tax relief as needlessly complicated as possible.”
“It’s an interesting proposal,” says Governor Armstrong. “From plubming, eletrical and appliances too, if the legislature passes this, the savings will most certainly come right back to you, the taxpayer.”
Legislators are expected to vote on the proposal next week. If passed, the Menards Property Tax Rebate program will go into effect immediately—just in time for this year’s annual Menards 11% rebate event.
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