Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in North Slope Borough County

Property taxes in North Slope Borough County are levied by the borough and, where applicable, by the State of Alaska. The process begins with a yearly assessment of each parcel’s market value, performed by the Borough Assessor’s Office. Assessors consider recent sales of comparable properties, improvements made to the land or structures, and any changes in land use. The assessed value is typically set at 50 % of the market value, as required by Alaska statutes, unless a different percentage has been approved by the borough.

Once the assessed value is established, the tax bill is calculated using the borough’s millage rate. A “mill” represents one‑thousandth of a dollar ($0.001) of assessed value. For example, if the current combined millage rate is 11.5 mills, a property assessed at $100,000 would owe:

Tax = Assessed Value × Millage Rate ÷ 1,000
$100,000 × 11.5 ÷ 1,000 = $1,150.

The borough publishes its annual millage rate in the budget ordinance, and any special district rates (e.g., schools, fire protection) are added to the base rate. Staying informed about rate changes helps property owners anticipate their tax obligations.

Available Exemptions

North Slope Borough follows Alaska’s statewide exemption programs, which can significantly reduce the taxable portion of a property’s assessed value.

• Homestead Exemption: Residents who occupy a parcel as their principal residence may claim a $1,000 reduction in assessed value for each year of ownership, up to a maximum of $10,000. The exemption must be renewed annually on the property tax return.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may qualify for an additional $1,000 reduction per year of residency, also capped at $10,000, provided their total household income does not exceed the state‑defined limit.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are legally declared disabled can claim a $5,000 exemption on the assessed value of their primary residence.
• Veteran Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans, as well as the surviving spouses of deceased veterans, are eligible for a $1,500 exemption on the assessed value of a home used as a primary residence.

To apply for any exemption, owners must file the appropriate form with the North Slope Borough Assessor’s Office by the March 1 deadline each year. Supporting documentation (e.g., proof of age, disability certification, military discharge papers) is required.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills are mailed in early February for the upcoming fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30. The standard payment schedule is:

• First Installment: Due July 31 – 50 % of the total tax amount.
• Second Installment: Due December 31 – the remaining 50 %.

Property owners may elect to pay the full amount by the July 31 deadline to avoid any processing fees. If an installment is missed, a 10 % late penalty is assessed on the unpaid balance, and interest accrues at the state‑prescribed rate of 6 % per annum. The borough also offers an automatic debit option for convenience and a limited hardship deferment for qualifying low‑income residents.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to appeal the valuation within the North Slope Borough.

• Notice of Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the Borough Assessor’s Office within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice.
• Documentation: Include recent sales data of comparable properties, independent appraisals, or evidence of physical damage that may affect value.
• Hearing: The Assessor will schedule an informal hearing where you can present your case. A public hearing officer will render an initial decision.
• Further Review: If unsatisfied with the hearing officer’s decision, you may appeal to the Alaska State Board of Equalization within 30 days of the written decision.

Throughout the process, maintaining organized records and adhering to deadlines is crucial. The borough’s website provides templates and detailed instructions to help you navigate the appeal efficiently.