Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in White County

White County property taxes are based on the assessed value of the real‑estate and the combined millage rates set by the county, city, school district, and other taxing authorities. The county assessor determines the market value of a property each year, typically using recent sales of comparable homes, replacement cost data, and any improvements made. This market value is then multiplied by the county’s assessment ratio (currently 100 % for residential property) to arrive at the *assessed value*.

The assessed value is multiplied by the total millage rate, expressed in “mills” (one mill equals one‑tenth of one percent, or $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). For example, if your home is assessed at $150,000 and the combined mill rate for White County is 45 mills, the annual tax bill would be:

($150,000 ÷ 1,000) × 45 = $6,750

Because millage rates can vary year‑to‑year, it’s important to check the latest rates posted by the White County Treasurer’s Office.

Available Exemptions

Arkansas law provides several exemptions that can reduce the taxable portion of your property. In White County you may qualify for one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption – Up to $5,000 of assessed value is exempt for owner‑occupied residences. An additional $250 may be deducted for a qualifying senior or disabled homeowner.
• Senior Citizen Exemption – Residents age 65 or older may receive an extra $1,500 exemption if the household income does not exceed the state‑defined limit.
• Disability Exemption – A permanent, total disability can qualify the homeowner for a $1,500 exemption, regardless of age.
• Veteran Exemption – Veterans who have served at least 90 days of active duty (or have a service‑connected disability) receive a $5,000 exemption. Surviving spouses of deceased veterans are also eligible.

Exemptions must be applied for through the White County Assessor’s Office, usually by March 15 of the assessment year. Supporting documentation (proof of age, disability, military service, etc.) is required.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

White County property taxes are due in two equal installments:

• First installment: Due November 1, with a grace period until December 31. A 5 % discount is often offered for payment before the November deadline.
• Second installment: Due March 1, with a grace period until April 30.

If you miss a deadline, a 10 % late fee is added to the overdue amount, and interest accrues at the state‑prescribed rate. Continued non‑payment can result in a tax lien, a tax foreclosure sale, and possible damage to your credit rating. The County Treasurer also offers electronic payment options, automatic bank drafts, and limited‑time installment plans for taxpayers experiencing hardship.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• Step 1 – Informal Review: Contact the White County Assessor’s Office within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. Often, a simple clarification can resolve the issue.
• Step 2 – Formal Appeal: If the informal review does not satisfy you, file a written appeal with the County Board of Assessment Appeals (BAA) no later than the 30‑day deadline. Include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or error documentation.
• Step 3 – Hearing: The BAA will schedule a hearing, typically within 60 days of filing. You may represent yourself or hire a licensed appraiser or attorney.
• Step 4 – Decision: The board issues a written decision within 30 days after the hearing. If you disagree with the outcome, you may file a petition with the Arkansas State Board of Assessment Appeals within 30 days of the BAA’s decision.

Throughout the process, keep copies of all correspondence, photographs, and valuation data. Prompt action and thorough documentation increase the likelihood of a successful reduction.