Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Bent County

Every year Bent County assesses the market value of each parcel of real‑estate. The County Assessor’s Office conducts a “full market” appraisal, meaning the value reflects what a willing buyer would pay a willing seller in an open market, less any depreciation. Once the assessment is finalized, the tax bill is calculated by multiplying the assessed value by the applicable millage rate (the amount of tax per $1,000 of assessed value).

Millage rates in Bent County are a combination of county, city/town, school district, and special district levies. For the 2024‑2025 tax year, the total combined millage was approximately 29.78 mills (or $29.78 per $1,000 of assessed value). This figure can vary each year as local governments approve new budgets or referendums. Your property tax estimator will use the current combined millage to give you an accurate projection.

Available Exemptions

Bent County follows Colorado state law for property‑tax exemptions. Qualifying homeowners can reduce their taxable base, which in turn lowers the amount of tax due.

• Homestead exemption: Provides a $250,000 exclusion from the assessed value for owner‑occupied residences. No additional paperwork is required; the exemption is automatically applied.
• Senior citizen exemption: Residents age 65 or older who meet income limits may receive an additional $150,000 exemption. Applicants must file a “Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief” form with the Assessor’s Office.
• Disability exemption: Qualified disabled persons (or households with a disabled member) can claim an extra $150,000 exemption, subject to income qualifications. Documentation of disability and income must be submitted.
• Veteran exemption: Colorado offers a $150,000 exemption for 100% disabled veterans, and a $75,000 exemption for veterans with a service‑connected disability rated at 50%–99%. Proof of disability rating and veteran status is required.

Exemptions are cumulative; for example, a senior disabled veteran may receive up to $550,000 in total exemptions, dramatically reducing the taxable portion of their home's assessed value.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Bent County are due in two installments. Missing a deadline triggers penalties and interest.

• First installment: Due by March 31. Paying by this date avoids any late‑payment penalties.
• Second installment: Due by July 31. The same deadline applies each year.
• Late payment consequences: If a payment is not received by the due date, a 3% penalty is added to the overdue amount, plus interest at the state‑prescribed rate (currently 5% per annum, compounded daily).
• Installment options: Taxpayers may pay the full amount online, by mail, or in person at the Bent County Treasurer’s Office. Some lenders escrow property taxes into monthly mortgage payments, ensuring timely payment.

It's advisable to set up reminders well before each deadline to avoid penalties, especially if you rely on mail‑in payments that may be delayed by holidays or weather.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property's assessed value is inaccurate, Bent County provides a structured appeals process.

1. Review your assessment: Examine the assessment notice and compare it to recent sales of similar properties in the area.
2. Contact the Assessor: Within 30 days of receiving the notice, you may request an informal meeting or ask for a correction. Often, errors are resolved at this stage.
3. File a formal appeal: If the issue remains unresolved, submit a written appeal to the Bent County Board of Equalization within 60 days of the assessment date. Include supporting evidence such as appraisals, sales data, and photographs.
4. Attend the hearing: The Board will schedule a hearing where you can present your case. An impartial hearing officer will make a determination based on the evidence.
5. Further review: If you disagree with the Board’s decision, you may appeal to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs’ State Board of Equalization within 30 days of the local decision.

Throughout the process, keep a copy of all correspondence and documentation. Successful appeals can result in a reduced assessed value, which directly lowers your tax liability.