Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Stone County

Stone County property taxes are based on the assessed value of real‑estate and the applicable millage rates set by the county, city, school districts, and other special districts. The Arkansas Assessor’s Office first determines the market value of a property each year, then applies a uniform assessment ratio (currently 20 % for residential land and 30 % for improvements) to arrive at the taxable value. This taxable value is multiplied by the combined millage rate—expressed in mills, where one mill equals $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value—to calculate the annual tax bill. For example, if a home’s assessed value is $150,000 and the total millage rate is 38 mills, the tax due would be $5,700 (150,000 × 0.020 × 0.038).

• Assessment Process: Annual market valuation → assessment ratio applied → taxable value posted on the county’s online portal.
• Millage Rates: Determined by voter‑approved budgets for each taxing entity; Stone County typically ranges between 30‑45 mills total.
• Tax Bill Generation: The County Treasurer issues statements each autumn, reflecting the current year’s rates and any pending special assessments.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas law provides several exemptions that can lower the taxable portion of your property. Eligibility varies by age, income, disability status, and military service. Claiming an exemption requires filing the appropriate application with the Stone County Assessor before the filing deadline (usually March 1).

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value of a primary residence by up to $5,000 (or a higher amount if the property is classified as a farm).
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents 65 years or older with a household income below $40,000 may qualify for an additional $5,000 reduction.
• Disability Exemption: A $5,000 reduction is available to homeowners with a qualifying disability as defined by the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
• Veteran Exemption: Disabled veterans (or surviving spouses) may receive a $5,000 exemption; service‑connected disability must be verified by the VA.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Stone County are due in two installments. Paying on time avoids interest, penalties, and possible tax lien filing.

• First Installment: Due October 15; typically 50 % of the total bill.
• Second Installment: Due March 15 of the following year; the remaining balance.
• Late Payment Penalties: A 10 % penalty plus $5 per $100 of unpaid tax is assessed after the due date.
• Installment Options: The Treasurer’s Office accepts online payments, mailed checks, or in‑person payments at the county clerk’s office.
• Discounts: No statutory discount for early payment, but some lenders offer escrow accounts that automatically pay on your behalf.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to contest it. The appeal must be filed with the Stone County Board of Assessment Appeals (BAA) within 30 days of the notice of assessed value.

• Step 1 – Gather Evidence: Obtain recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or evidence of property damage.
• Step 2 – File the Appeal: Submit the written appeal form and supporting documents to the BAA office or online portal.
• Step 3 – Attend the Hearing: A hearing is scheduled within 45 days of filing; you may present testimony and evidence.
• Step 4 – Decision: The BAA issues a written decision; if unsatisfied, you may appeal further to the Arkansas Tax Appeal Tribunal.
• Important Dates: All appeals must be lodged by the deadline stated on the assessment notice—missing it generally forfeits the right to contest for that tax year.