Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Lee County

Lee County property taxes are based on the assessed value of the land and any improvements (such as a house or commercial building). The process begins with the County Assessor’s Office determining the market value of each parcel, typically in January. This market value is then adjusted by an equalization factor—set by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration—to arrive at the final assessed value.

Once the assessed value is established, the tax bill is calculated by applying the appropriate millage rate. One mill represents one‑tenth of one cent ($0.001) per dollar of assessed value. Lee County’s combined millage rates (including county, city, school, and special district levies) usually range from 8.0 to 12.5 mills, depending on the property’s location and the services it receives. The formula looks like this:

Property Tax = Assessed Value × (Total Millage Rate ÷ 1,000)

For example, a home with an assessed value of $120,000 and a total millage rate of 10.5 mills would owe $1,260 in annual property taxes.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas offers several exemptions that can lower the taxable portion of your assessed value. Eligibility is determined at the state level, but applications are processed through the Lee County Assessor’s Office.

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by up to $20,000, subject to income and residency qualifications.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may receive an additional $10,000 reduction if their household income does not exceed the state‑defined limit.
• Disability Exemption: A $10,000 exemption is available for qualified individuals with a permanent physical or mental disability, as documented by a physician.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans and active‑duty military personnel who are disabled or who meet specific service criteria may qualify for a $10,000 exemption. Surviving spouses of veterans may also be eligible.

All exemptions must be applied for in writing and are typically reviewed annually. Be sure to attach supporting documentation (proof of age, disability certification, veteran status, etc.) to avoid processing delays.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Lee County collects property taxes in four quarterly installments, a schedule that aligns with Arkansas state law:

• Quarter 1: Due March 1
• Quarter 2: Due May 1
• Quarter 3: Due July 1
• Quarter 4: Due October 1

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the County Treasurer’s Office. If a payment is not received by the due date, a 10 % penalty is assessed after a 30‑day grace period, and interest accrues at the statutory rate until the balance is paid in full.

For homeowners who prefer a single payment, the Treasurer’s Office offers a 5 % discount when the full annual amount is paid by the March 1 deadline. Installment plans are also available for those who qualify for a hardship waiver.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to appeal the valuation. Follow these steps to file an appeal in Lee County:

• Review the Notice: You will receive an Assessment Notice each January. Check the assessed value and any exemptions applied.
• File a Written Appeal: Submit a formal appeal to the Lee County Assessor’s Office within 30 days of the notice date. Include supporting evidence such as recent sales of comparable properties, an independent appraisal, or photographs showing condition discrepancies.
• Board of Equalization Hearing: If the Assessor’s decision does not resolve the dispute, you may request a hearing before the County Board of Equalization. This hearing must be scheduled within 30 days of the Assessor’s final written response.
• Final Determination: The Board will issue a written decision. If you remain dissatisfied, you may pursue judicial review in the Arkansas Circuit Court, though this is rarely necessary.

Throughout the appeals process, maintain copies of all correspondence and documentation. Prompt, organized communication greatly improves the likelihood of a favorable outcome.