Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Montgomery County

Montgomery County levies property tax based on the assessed value of each parcel, which is derived from its market value as of the most recent assessment date (generally January 1 of each year). The Arkansas Board of Assessment determines the market value, after which the county applies the statutory assessment ratio of 20 % for residential real property and 30 % for commercial/industrial land. The resulting assessed value is then multiplied by the total millage rate (expressed in mills, where one mill equals one‑tenth of one cent) to calculate the annual tax bill.

The current millage rate for Montgomery County is a combination of several components:

• County General Fund: 12.5 mills
• School Districts (e.g., Caddo, Sparkman): 80.0 mills
• City/Town Levies (if applicable): varies, typically 5‑15 mills
• Special Districts (e.g., road, fire): 3‑7 mills

Adding these components yields an overall rate that generally falls between 100 and 115 mills. Multiply the assessed value by the total millage rate, then divide by 1,000 to obtain the dollar amount owed for the year.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas provides several property‑tax exemptions that can reduce the assessed value before the millage is applied. Eligible homeowners in Montgomery County may claim one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption – Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by $5,000. Must be occupied as the owner’s principal dwelling.
• Senior Citizen Exemption – Residents aged 65 or older can receive an additional $1,500 reduction on the assessed value of their homestead.
• Disability Exemption – Qualifying persons with a permanent disability (or households with a disabled member) receive a $1,500 reduction on the homestead assessment.
• Veteran Exemption – Eligible veterans (or surviving spouses) obtain a $5,000 reduction on the assessed value of their primary residence. Service‑connected disability may also qualify for the senior/disabled exemption.

Exemptions are claimed on the annual property tax return filed with the Montgomery County Assessor’s Office. Supporting documentation (age proof, disability certification, DD‑214, etc.) must accompany the application.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Montgomery County property taxes are payable in two installments:

• First Installment – Due October 15. This portion covers half of the total tax bill.
• Second Installment – Due January 15 of the following year. The balance is due at this time.

Taxpayers may also opt for a quarterly payment plan through the County Treasurer, which spreads the liability over four equal payments (usually due in July, October, January, and April). All payments must be made by electronic funds transfer, credit/debit card, or in person at the Treasurer’s Office.

Late payments incur a penalty of 10 % of the overdue amount, plus interest at the state‑prescribed rate (currently 0.5 % per month). Persistent delinquency can result in tax lien filing and possible auction of the property.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, Montgomery County offers a structured appeals process:

• Step 1 – Review: Obtain the assessment notice and compare the market value with recent comparable sales.
• Step 2 – File an Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the County Assessor’s Office within 30 days of the notice date. Include supporting evidence such as appraisals, sales data, or photographs.
• Step 3 – Hearing: The Assessor will schedule an informal hearing. You may present your case in person or via a qualified representative.
• Step 4 – Decision: After the hearing, the Assessor issues a written decision. If unsatisfied, you may further appeal to the Arkansas Board of Assessment Review within 30 days of the Assessor’s decision.

Throughout the process, maintain copies of all correspondence and be prepared to show clear, documented discrepancies between the county’s valuation and the true market value. Successful appeals can lower your assessed value and, consequently, your annual tax liability.