Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Lafayette County

In Lafayette County, property taxes are calculated by first determining the market value of your property and then applying the county’s millage rates. The County Assessor’s Office conducts an annual assessment, typically in the spring, to estimate the “fair market value” of each parcel based on recent sales, improvements, and land characteristics. This assessed value is then multiplied by the combined millage rates set by the County, city (if applicable), school district, and special districts (e.g., fire, library). A millage rate of 1 mill equals $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if a home is assessed at $120,000 and the total millage rate is 27 mills, the annual tax bill would be $3,240 (120,000 ÷ 1,000 × 27).

Available Exemptions

Arkansas offers several exemptions that can lower your taxable base. Lafayette County honors the state‑wide programs, and you may qualify for one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by up to $5,000, or $10,000 for seniors or disabled owners.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional $5,000 exemption on the homestead portion, provided the household income does not exceed $30,000.
• Disability Exemption: Qualified disabled individuals (or households) can claim a $5,000 reduction, similar to the senior exemption.
• Veteran Exemptions: Honorably discharged veterans receive a $5,000 exemption; disabled veterans may qualify for an additional exemption based on the percentage of disability.

All exemption applications must be submitted to the Lafayette County Assessor’s Office by the deadline (usually March 1) and are subject to annual renewal. Providing proper documentation—such as proof of age, disability rating, or veteran status—is essential.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Lafayette County property taxes are due in two installments:

• First Installment: Due November 1. If paid by December 15, the county offers a 3 % discount on the amount due.
• Second Installment: Due March 1 of the following year. Payment by April 15 avoids a 5 % late penalty.

Payments can be made online through the county’s e‑pay portal, by mail, or in person at the Treasurer’s Office. If you miss a deadline, a 5 % penalty plus interest accrues monthly until the balance is paid in full. Persistent delinquency may result in a tax lien, possible foreclosure, or loss of the right to vote in local elections.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to appeal to the Lafayette County Board of Equalization. Follow these steps:

• Notice of Appeal: File a written notice with the Board within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice.
• Gather Evidence: Compile recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or photographs that demonstrate the true condition and value of the property.
• Hearing Request: Submit a formal request for a hearing; the Board will schedule a date, typically within 60 days of the appeal filing.
• Present Your Case: Appear at the hearing and present your evidence. You may be represented by an attorney or a qualified tax professional.
• Decision: The Board issues a written decision within 30 days of the hearing. If the decision is unfavorable, you may further appeal to the Arkansas Boards of Assessment Appeals (ABAA).

Timely filing and thorough documentation are crucial. Many homeowners successfully reduce their tax burden by demonstrating that comparable properties in Lafayette County are assessed at lower values.