Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Hempstead County

In Hempstead County, property taxes are calculated by first determining the taxable value of a parcel, then applying the appropriate millage rates set by local taxing authorities. The county’s Assessor’s Office conducts an annual assessment, usually in June, and bases the assessed value on the market value of the property as of January 1 of the tax year. In most cases the assessment equals 100 % of the market value, though certain property types (e.g., agricultural land) may be assessed at a lower percentage.

Once the taxable value is established, the total tax bill is derived by multiplying that value by the combined millage rate—expressed as dollars per $1,000 of value. For 2024 the combined rate in Hempstead County is approximately 27.5 mills, which includes the county road fund, the school district, the city (if applicable), and other special districts. A “mill” equals one‑tenth of a cent, so a $200,000 home with a 27.5‑mill rate would owe $5,500 in property taxes before any exemptions are applied.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas law provides several exemptions that can reduce the taxable value of a residence. Hempstead County follows the state guidelines, and eligible owners may claim one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by up to $5,000. The exemption must be claimed by filing a Homestead Exemption Application with the county assessor.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional $5,000 exemption on the homestead value, provided they meet income limits set by the state.
• Disability Exemption: Qualified individuals with a physical or mental disability may receive a $5,000 exemption. Proof of disability from a licensed physician or the Social Security Administration is required.
• Veteran Exemption: Armed forces veterans who are permanently disabled (or the surviving spouse of a veteran who died in service) can claim a $5,000 exemption. Documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs is necessary.

These exemptions are cumulative; a senior veteran with a disability could potentially lower the taxable value by $15,000. Applications are typically due by March 1 of the tax year.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Hempstead County property taxes are payable in two installments:

• First Installment: Due November 15. This payment covers the first half of the year’s tax liability.
• Second Installment: Due March 1 of the following year. The balance of the tax bill is due at this time.

Taxpayers may also choose a quarterly payment plan offered by the county treasurer, which spreads the liability over four equal payments (October 1, January 1, April 1, and July 1). Late payments incur a penalty of 5 % of the overdue amount plus interest at a rate set by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. Persistent delinquency can result in a tax lien, foreclosure, or the sale of the property at a tax sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, Hempstead County provides a formal appeals process:

• Step 1 – Review the Notice: The assessment notice will include a deadline—usually 30 days from the mailing date—to file an appeal.
• Step 2 – File a Written Appeal: Submit a written protest to the Hempstead County Board of Equalization, including supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, a professional appraisal, or photographs.
• Step 3 – Attend a Hearing: The board will schedule a hearing where you may present your case. You may also bring an attorney or qualified appraiser.
• Step 4 – Decision & Further Review: The board issues a written decision within 30 days. If unsatisfied, you may appeal to the Arkansas Tax Board, and subsequently to the Arkansas Supreme Court.

Act promptly—missed deadlines generally forfeit the right to contest the assessment for that tax year. Keeping thorough records and comparable market data will strengthen your appeal and increase the likelihood of a favorable adjustment.