Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Matanuska‑Susitna Borough County

The Matanuska‑Susitna Borough (Mat‑Su) bases property taxes on the assessed value of each parcel. The borough’s Assessor determines market value each August, then applies a uniform assessment factor—generally 100 % for residential land and structures, and 75 % for agricultural or timber land—to arrive at the assessed value used for tax calculations.

Once the assessed value is set, the borough multiplies it by the applicable millage rate. One mill equals one‑tenth of a cent, or $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value. Millage rates are set annually by the Borough Assembly and can vary by tax district (e.g., school district, fire district, city‑type). For example, a combined rate of 12 mills on a home assessed at $200,000 would generate an annual tax bill of $2,400 (200,000 ÷ 1,000 × 12).

Available Exemptions

Alaska law provides several exemptions that reduce the taxable portion of a property’s assessed value. In Mat‑Su, eligible owners should claim exemptions when they file their tax return.

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by up to $50,000. The exemption applies automatically if the owner occupies the home as a homestead and has not claimed a larger exemption elsewhere.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional exemption of up to $25,000, provided they meet income limits set by the state.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with qualifying disabilities can claim an extra $25,000 exemption, also subject to income qualifications.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans and surviving spouses of veterans who were disabled in combat are eligible for a $25,000 exemption. Active‑duty service members may also qualify for a reduced rate under certain programs.

Exemptions are cumulative; a senior veteran who qualifies for both the senior and veteran exemptions can reduce the taxable assessed value by as much as $75,000 (including the homestead exemption).

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills in the Matanuska‑Susitna Borough are issued in two installments:

• First installment: Due October 1 each year.
• Second installment: Due March 1.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Borough Treasurer’s Office. Homeowners may elect to pay the full amount early; doing so avoids any interest or penalties.

If a payment is missed, a late fee of 5 % of the overdue amount is assessed after 30 days, and interest accrues at the rate set by the borough (currently 4 % per annum). Continual delinquency can result in a tax lien, possible tax sale, and loss of funding for local services.

Appealing Your Assessment

Property owners who believe their assessment is inaccurate have the right to appeal.

• File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the form to the Board of Tax Assessment within 30 days of receiving the assessment notice.
• Gather Evidence: Provide recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or proof of errors (e.g., incorrect square footage).
• Attend a Hearing: The Board will schedule a public hearing where you can present your case. A decision is typically rendered within 60 days of the hearing.
• Further Review: If you disagree with the Board’s decision, you may appeal to the Alaska State Tax Tribunal within 30 days of the Board’s final order.

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