Rate Breakdown

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

Welcome to the Cross County, Arkansas property tax estimator. Understanding how your property taxes are calculated, what exemptions may apply, when to pay, and how to contest an assessment can save you time and money. Use the information below to make informed decisions about your property tax obligations.

How Property Tax Works in Cross County

In Cross County, property taxes are based on the **assessed value** of real and personal property and the applicable **millage rates** set by local taxing entities. The process follows these steps:

• Assessment. The Cross County Assessor’s Office conducts a market‑value assessment each year (typically in January). This value reflects the price a willing buyer would pay for the property in an open market, considering land, structures, and improvements.
• Assessment Ratio. Arkansas law requires most residential property to be assessed at 20 % of its market value; commercial and industrial properties are commonly assessed at 30 %.
• Millage Calculation. One mill equals one‑tenth of one percent ($0.001). The total millage rate for Cross County is the sum of rates levied by the County, the school district, municipal governments, and special districts (e.g., fire, road). For 2024, the combined rate is approximately 71 mills (7.1 %).
• Tax Bill. Multiply the assessed value by the millage rate and divide by 1,000. Example: a home with a market value of $150,000 has an assessed value of $30,000 (20 %). At 71 mills, the tax due is ($30,000 × 71) ÷ 1,000 = $2,130.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas offers several exemptions that can lower your taxable base. Eligibility is determined by residency, age, disability status, or military service.

• Homestead Exemption. Homeowners can receive a $500 exemption on the assessed value of their primary residence (10 % of the assessed value, whichever is greater).
• Senior Citizen Exemption. Residents aged 65 or older may claim an additional $500 exemption if income does not exceed the state‑defined threshold.
• Disability Exemption. Persons with a qualifying physical or mental disability are eligible for a $500 exemption, similar to the senior exemption.
• Veteran Exemption. Honorably discharged veterans or their surviving spouses can claim a $500 exemption. Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service may also qualify.

Exemptions are applied to the assessed value before the millage calculation, effectively reducing the tax bill.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Cross County property taxes are due in two installments, with optional electronic or mailed payment options.

• First Installment. Due October 15. This payment covers roughly 50 % of the total tax liability.
• Second Installment. Due March 15 of the following year. The remaining balance must be paid by this date.
• Late Payments. A 10 % penalty plus interest accrues on overdue balances after the deadline. Continued delinquency may result in a tax lien and potential foreclosure.
• Installment Plans. Taxpayers may request a quarterly payment plan through the County Treasurer’s Office, subject to approval and additional administrative fees.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to contest it. Follow these steps:

• Review the Assessment. Obtain a copy of the assessor’s report and verify the market value, property description, and assessment ratio.
• File a Formal Appeal. Submit a written appeal to the Cross County Board of Equalization within 30 days of the notice of assessment (usually by early March). Include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, appraisals, or error corrections.
• Attend a Hearing. A board hearing will be scheduled; you may present your case in person or via authorized representative.
• Decision & Further Review. The board issues a written decision within 30 days. If the outcome is unsatisfactory, you may appeal to the Arkansas Board of Assessment Appeals within 30 days of the county decision.

Timely action and thorough documentation are essential for a successful appeal.