Lauderdale County Property Tax: A Comprehensive Guide for 2023

Introduction

Property taxes are a significant expense for homeowners, and Lauderdale County, Mississippi is no exception. Understanding how property taxes are assessed and paid can help you make informed decisions and ensure you're paying the correct amount. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about Lauderdale County property tax, including assessment, payment deadlines, exemptions, and more.

Property Tax Overview

Property tax is a local tax levied on real estate, including land, buildings, and other improvements. The amount of property tax you owe is based on the assessed value of your property, which is determined by the Lauderdale County Tax Assessor's Office. The tax rate is set by the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors.

Property Tax Assessment

The Lauderdale County Tax Assessor's Office assesses all real property within the county. The assessment process involves examining the property, collecting data on its characteristics, and determining its fair market value. The assessor considers factors such as the property's size, location, condition, and comparable sales in the area.

Property Tax Rates

The Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors sets the property tax rate each year. The current tax rate for 2023 is 18.5 mills, which means you will pay $18.50 in property taxes for every $1,000 of assessed value.

Property Tax Payment Deadlines

Property tax bills are mailed to homeowners in early November. The first installment of the property tax is due on December 31st, and the second installment is due on May 15th. There is a 10% penalty for late payments.

Property Tax Exemptions

Lauderale County offers several property tax exemptions for eligible homeowners. These exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: A $75,000 exemption for owner-occupied homes.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: A $30,000 exemption for homeowners over the age of 65.
• Disabled Veteran Exemption: A full exemption for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses.
• Agricultural Exemption: An exemption for land used for agricultural purposes.

How to Apply for Property Tax Exemptions

To apply for a property tax exemption, you must submit an application to the Lauderdale County Tax Assessor's Office. The application must include proof of eligibility, such as a driver's license, birth certificate, or military service records.

Property Tax Appeals

If you believe your property has been assessed incorrectly, you can file an appeal with the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors. The appeal process involves submitting a written request to the board and providing evidence to support your claim.

Tips and Tricks

• Pay your property taxes on time to avoid penalties.
• Apply for property tax exemptions if you qualify.
• File an appeal if you believe your property has been assessed incorrectly.
• Keep all property tax records and receipts for future reference.

Table 1: Lauderdale County Property Tax Rates

Table 2: Lauderdale County Property Tax Exemptions

Table 3: Lauderdale County Property Tax Payment Deadlines

Table 4: Lauderdale County Property Tax Appeal Process