Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Mississippi County

Mississippi County, Arkansas, assesses property taxes on the fair market value of real and personal property as of January 1 each year. The County Assessor’s Office conducts a systematic appraisal that includes a review of recent sales, income‑approach calculations for income‑producing properties, and cost‑approach estimates for new construction. Once the assessed value is determined, the tax amount is calculated by applying the applicable millage rates.

Millage rates are expressed in mills, where one mill equals one‑tenth of one percent (0.001) of assessed value. In Mississippi County the total millage is a combination of several local levies:

• County General Fund Millage: funds roads, law enforcement, and county services.
• School District Millage: supports the Arkansas County School District and any independent districts within the county.
• Special District Millage: includes fire protection, water & sewer, and municipal services where applicable.
• State Millage: Arkansas imposes a state levy for education and other statewide programs.

For example, if the combined millage rate is 32.5 mills and a home is assessed at $120,000, the property tax bill would be: $120,000 × 0.0325 = $3,900.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas offers several property‑tax exemptions that can lower the assessed value before the millage is applied. Mississippi County residents may qualify for the following:

• Homestead Exemption: A $2,500 reduction for owner‑occupied residential properties.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional $1,250 exemption, provided the home is their primary residence.
• Disability Exemption: A $1,000 exemption for homeowners with a qualifying disability, plus possible additional credits for severely disabled individuals.
• Veteran Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans, and in some cases surviving spouses, may qualify for a $2,500 exemption; disabled veterans receive the full homestead exemption regardless of income.

To claim an exemption, submit the appropriate application to the Mississippi County Assessor’s Office before the assessment date (typically March 31). Supporting documentation—such as proof of age, disability rating, or military discharge—must accompany the request.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Mississippi County issues two property‑tax installments each fiscal year:

• First Installment: Due November 15. Payment of at least 50 % of the total bill is required to avoid penalties.
• Second Installment: Due February 15 of the following year. The remaining balance must be paid in full.

Taxpayers may elect to pay the full amount by the November deadline and receive a modest discount (usually 2 %). If an installment is missed, a 10 % late‑payment penalty plus interest accrues on the unpaid balance. The County Treasurer’s Office also offers electronic payment options, automatic bank drafts, and in‑person payments at the clerk’s office.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• Step 1 – File a Written Protest: Submit a protest form to the County Assessor’s Office within 30 days of receiving the assessment notice.
• Step 2 – Review by the County Board of Equalization: The board will schedule a hearing, during which you may present evidence such as recent comparable sales, independent appraisals, or photographs.
• Step 3 – Decision: The board issues a written decision within 60 days of the hearing. If the decision is unfavorable, you may appeal to the Arkansas Board of Assessors within 20 days.

Prepare your appeal by gathering all relevant documents, including property tax bills, mortgage statements, and any recent appraisal reports. Professional assistance from a licensed appraiser or property‑tax attorney can strengthen your case and help navigate procedural requirements.