Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Haines Borough County

In Haines Borough County, property taxes are levied by the borough and, where applicable, by the State of Alaska. The process begins with a **property assessment** performed by the Haines Borough Assessor’s Office. Each taxable parcel is examined for land value, improvements (such as a house or commercial building), and any relevant depreciation. Assessments are typically updated every three years, but the Assessor may conduct interim reviews if substantial changes occur (e.g., new construction, major renovations, or a change in ownership).

Once the assessed value is established, the borough applies its **millage rate**—the amount of tax per $1,000 of assessed value. For the 2024‑2025 fiscal year, Haines Borough’s general millage rate is 15.8 mills (or 1.58%). Additional millages may be added for specific services such as fire protection, road maintenance, and school districts. The final tax bill is calculated as follows:

• Assessed Value × (Total Millage Rate ÷ 1,000) = Annual Property Tax

For example, a home assessed at $250,000 with a total millage rate of 17.3 mills would owe $4,325 in property taxes for the year.

Available Exemptions

Alaska provides several exemptions that can reduce a homeowner’s taxable base in Haines Borough. Eligibility is determined by state law and local ordinances.

• Homestead Exemption: Residents who occupy the property as their primary residence may qualify for a reduction of up to $50,000 on the assessed value.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older, meeting income thresholds (generally $45,000 household income), can receive an additional $25,000 reduction.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with a permanent disability certified by the Alaska Department of Administration can deduct $30,000 from the assessed value.
• Veteran Exemption: Eligible veterans (including disabled veterans) may receive a $20,000 reduction. Active‑duty service members stationed in Alaska may also qualify for temporary exemptions.

Exemptions are not automatic; property owners must file the appropriate application with the Haines Borough Assessor’s Office by the filing deadline each year.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Haines Borough are billed twice a year, offering flexibility for homeowners.

• First Installment: Due September 1 – covers the first half of the annual tax liability.
• Second Installment: Due December 31 – covers the remaining balance.

Payments can be submitted online through the borough’s e‑pay portal, by mail, or in person at the borough treasurer’s office. If the total tax bill is less than $500, the borough may allow a single‑payment option.

Late payments incur a 2% penalty on the overdue amount, plus interest at the rate set by the Alaska Department of Revenue (currently 6% annually). Persistent delinquency may result in a tax lien, and, in extreme cases, a tax foreclosure.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• Step 1 – Notice of Appeal: Submit a written Notice of Appeal to the Haines Borough Assessor’s Office within 30 days of receiving the assessment notice.
• Step 2 – Gather Evidence: Compile comparable sales data, recent appraisals, and any documentation of property defects or improvements.
• Step 3 – Hearing: The borough will schedule an informal hearing with the Assessment Appeals Board. Present your evidence and answer any questions.
• Step 4 – Decision: The Board issues a written decision, typically within 45 days of the hearing. If unsatisfied, you may further appeal to the Alaska State Board of Land, Water, and Natural Resources within 30 days of the Board’s decision.

Understanding each step and submitting a complete, well‑documented appeal greatly improves the likelihood of a favorable adjustment.