Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Anchorage County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

How Property Tax Works in Anchorage County

Every year the Anchorage County Assessor’s Office determines the taxable value of each parcel of real estate. The process begins with a market‑value appraisal, which aims to reflect the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller under normal conditions. Once the market value is established, the assessor applies a uniform assessment ratio—currently 10% for most residential properties—to arrive at the assessed value.

That assessed value is then multiplied by the applicable millage rate(s). In Alaska a “mill” represents one‑tenth of a cent, or $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. Anchorage County’s overall tax rate includes several components:

• General County Millage (approximately 5.55 mills)
• School District Millage (around 4.35 mills)
• Special Service Districts (e.g., fire, water, or transportation) that vary per location

Combine the rates to obtain the total millage—for most residential parcels it falls between 9.5 and 11.0 mills. Multiply the assessed value by this total and divide by 1,000 to calculate the annual property tax bill.

Available Exemptions

Alaska offers several exemptions that can reduce the taxable portion of your property. Eligibility is determined by the State of Alaska Department of Revenue and the Anchorage County Assessor.

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $150,000 of the assessed value may be exempt for owner‑occupied residences. The exemption applies automatically if the property is your primary residence.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may qualify for an additional $75,000 exemption, provided their income does not exceed the state‑defined threshold.
• Disability Exemption: Persons with a qualifying disability can claim a $75,000 exemption. Documentation from a licensed medical professional is required.
• Veteran Exemption: Alaska veterans who have served at least 90 days of active duty, or who have a service‑connected disability, may receive a $75,000 exemption. Surviving spouses of deceased veterans are also eligible.

Exemptions are cumulative but cannot exceed the total assessed value. Applications are filed with the Anchorage County Assessor by March 1 each year; otherwise, the exemption will not be reflected on that year’s tax bill.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Anchorage County issues property tax statements in early February. The standard payment schedule is:

• First installment: Due March 31 (30 % of total tax)
• Second installment: Due July 31 (30 % of total tax)
• Final installment: Due December 31 (remaining 40 % of total tax)

Taxpayers may elect to pay the full amount at any time without penalty. Installment payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at any Anchorage County Treasury office. Late payments incur a 5 % penalty on the delinquent portion, plus interest at the rate set by the Alaska Department of Revenue (currently 2 % per annum). Persistent non‑payment may result in a tax lien, tax sale, or foreclosure.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to appeal. Follow these steps:

• File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the form to the Anchorage County Assessor’s Office by April 15 (or within 30 days of the notice of assessment).
• Gather Evidence: Compile comparable sales, recent appraisals, or any documentation that supports a lower market value.
• Attend a Hearing: An appointed hearing officer will review the case. Be prepared to present your evidence clearly and concisely.
• Decision & Further Appeal: If the hearing officer’s decision is unsatisfactory, you may appeal to the Alaska State Board of Equalization within 30 days of the written decision.

Timeliness is crucial—missed deadlines generally forfeit your right to contest the assessment for that tax year. For assistance, contact the Anchorage County Assessor’s Office directly or consult a qualified property tax professional.