Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Kodiak Island Borough County

Kodiak Island Borough County assesses property tax based on the fair market value of the land and any improvements as of the assessment date, which is typically January 1st each year. The Borough’s Assessor’s Office determines this value through a combination of market data, recent sales, and on‑site inspections. Once the assessed value is established, the tax liability is calculated by applying the applicable millage rates.

Millage rates are expressed in “mills,” where one mill equals one‑tenth of one percent (0.001) of the assessed value. Kodiak Island Borough sets its own millage for borough services (e.g., public safety, road maintenance) and then adds the rates levied by the State of Alaska, school districts, and any special districts that intersect the property. The final tax bill is the sum of all these rates multiplied by the assessed value.

• Assessed value: 100% of market value for residential property; varies for commercial and industrial parcels.
• Borough millage (2024): Approximately 12.5 mills for general services.
• State & school millage: Around 4.0–5.5 mills, depending on the school district.
• Total effective rate: Typically 16–18 mills (1.6%–1.8% of assessed value).

Available Exemptions

Alaska offers several property‑tax exemptions that can lower your liability in Kodiak Island Borough. Eligibility criteria are strict, and you must apply through the borough assessor.

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $2,000 of assessed value is exempt for owner‑occupied residences that serve as the primary home.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional $2,000 exemption, provided income does not exceed the state‑defined threshold.
• Disability Exemption: Persons with qualifying disabilities can claim another $2,000 exemption, with documentation from a licensed medical professional.
• Veteran Exemption: Honorable‑discharged veterans, or surviving spouses of veterans who died in service, may receive up to $2,000 exemption; disabled veterans may qualify for a larger exemption under state law.

Exemptions are cumulative up to the statutory limit (currently $8,000 of total exempted assessed value). Submit the appropriate forms by March 1 of the tax year to receive the benefit.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Kodiak Island Borough are due in two installments. Meeting the deadlines avoids penalties and interest.

• First installment: Due October 15. Pay 50% of the total tax bill.
• Second installment: Due March 15 of the following year. Pay the remaining 50%.
• Late payment: A 5% penalty is applied after the due date, plus interest at the state‑prescribed rate (currently 2% per annum).
• Installment options: Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the borough’s finance office. Automatic bank‑draft arrangements are available for convenience.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to appeal. The process is structured and must be initiated within a strict timeline.

• File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the form to the Kodiak Island Borough Assessor’s Office by June 30 of the tax year.
• Gather evidence: Include recent comparable sales, a professional appraisal, or photographs showing condition discrepancies.
• Hearing: An administrative hearing is scheduled within 30 days of filing. You may represent yourself or retain counsel.
• Decision: The assessor issues a written decision. If unsatisfied, you may appeal to the Alaska State Board of Appeals within 30 days of the decision.

Timely filing and thorough documentation are essential to a successful appeal. The borough’s website provides templates and detailed instructions to guide you through each step.