Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Garfield County

Garfield County, Colorado determines property taxes through a two‑step process: assessment of the property's market value and application of the appropriate millage rates. Every year the county assessor’s office conducts a market‑value appraisal that reflects what the property would sell for on the open market as of January 1. This value is then adjusted by any applicable exemptions (see the next section) and multiplied by the combined millage rate set by the county, municipalities, school districts, fire protection districts, and special districts that serve the property.

A “mill” represents one‑tenth of one percent (0.001). For example, a combined millage rate of 70 mills means you pay $70 for every $1,000 of assessed value. Garfield County’s millage rates typically range from 60 to 80 mills, but they can vary each fiscal year based on voter‑approved budgets and state‑mandated caps.

Available Exemptions

Colorado law provides several exemptions that reduce the taxable portion of your property’s assessed value. In Garfield County you may qualify for one or more of the following:

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $75,000 of the assessed value can be exempt for a primary residence, lowering the tax base.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional $50,000 exemption if they meet income requirements (generally $30,000 household income or less).
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with a qualifying physical or mental disability can claim an extra $50,000 exemption, also subject to income limits.
• Veteran Exemption: Eligible disabled veterans may claim up to $100,000 (or $200,000 for 100% disabled) of their assessed value, plus an additional $25,000 for surviving spouses.

Exemptions are applied automatically for many applicants, but you must submit the appropriate paperwork to the Garfield County Assessor’s Office by the deadline (typically March 31) to receive the benefit.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Garfield County property taxes are billed in two installments:

• First Installment: Due October 31.
• Second Installment: Due March 31.

If you pay the full amount by the October deadline, you can avoid the second bill altogether. Late payments incur a penalty of 5 % on the overdue amount, plus interest at the state‑mandated rate (currently 5 % annually). Continued delinquency may result in a tax lien and, ultimately, foreclosure.

Payments can be made online through the county’s tax portal, by mailed check, or in person at the Garfield County Treasurer’s Office. Some lenders also collect taxes through escrow accounts; be sure to verify that the escrow schedule aligns with the county’s deadlines.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to appeal. Follow these steps:

• File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the form to the Garfield County Assessor’s Office no later than May 31 of the tax year in question.
• Gather Evidence: Compile recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, and any documentation of property damage or improvements.
• Request a Hearing: The County Board of Assessment Appeals will schedule a public hearing, typically within 30 days of filing.
• Present Your Case: Bring your evidence and be prepared to answer questions from the board members.
• Receive a Decision: The board issues a written ruling, which may uphold, reduce, or increase the assessment. If unsatisfied, you can appeal to the Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals within 30 days of the county decision.

Timely filing and thorough documentation are essential to a successful appeal. For assistance, consider consulting a local property tax professional or contacting the Garfield County Assessor’s Office directly.