Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Drew County

Drew County assesses property values on a “fair market value” basis, meaning the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller under normal conditions. The County Assessor’s Office conducts an on‑site inspection, reviews recent comparable sales, and verifies improvements reported by the owner. Assessments are updated every three years, but the county may reassess after a sale, new construction, or a significant change in use. Once the assessed value is established, the tax bill is calculated by multiplying that value by the applicable millage rate. In Arkansas, one mill equals one‑tenth of one cent, so a rate of 30 mills translates to $30 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value. Different taxing entities—Drew County, Dardanelle School District, city of Monticello, and special districts—each set their own millage, which are then summed into the total “combined” rate shown on your statement.

Available Exemptions

• Homestead Exemption: Eligible owners of a primary residence may receive a $5,000 reduction in assessed value. Proof of occupancy (utility bills, voter registration) must be filed with the County Assessor.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older who meet income limits (generally $35,000 or less per household) qualify for an additional $10,000 reduction. Applicants submit a state‑approved senior exemption form and income documentation.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or a comparable state disability payment may claim a $5,000 exemption. Proof of disability and income verification are required.
• Veteran Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans, and in some cases their surviving spouses, can receive up to a $5,000 exemption for a primary residence. Documentary evidence of service (DD‑214) and proof of residence must be provided.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Drew County are due in two installments. The first installment is payable on September 1 and covers the fiscal year July 1 – June 30. The second installment is due on January 15 of the following calendar year. Payments can be made online through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration portal, by mailed check, or in person at the County Treasurer’s Office. If you prefer to spread the cost, the Treasurer offers an optional quarterly plan, but each installment must still be received by the statutory due date. Late payments incur a 10 % penalty on the overdue amount plus interest calculated at 1 % per month. Unpaid taxes may result in a tax lien, foreclosure proceedings, or loss of the property’s credit rating.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to appeal. First, file a written protest with the Drew County Assessor’s Office within 30 days of the assessment notice—include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, a professional appraisal, or photographs of the property’s condition. The Assessor will hold a hearing, typically within 60 days, where you can present your case. Should the outcome remain unsatisfactory, you may appeal to the Arkansas Board of Assessment Appeals, filing a petition within 45 days of the Assessor’s decision. Throughout the process, keep copies of all correspondence, and consider consulting a local property tax attorney to strengthen your position.