Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Huerfano County

Every year the Huerfano County Assessor’s Office evaluates the market value of all taxable real property within the county. The process begins with a “mass appraisal,” where the assessor uses sales data, cost‑approach methods, and income‑approach techniques to estimate a property’s market value as of January 1. Property owners receive a Notice of Assessment by early March, which states the assessed value and the total tax due.

Once the assessed value is set, the tax bill is calculated by applying the combined millage rate. A mill is one‑tenth of a cent, or $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value. In Huerfano County the total millage rate typically includes:

• County property tax levy (approximately 170 mills)
• School district levy (around 230 mills)
• Special districts, fire protection, and other local levies (varying by location)

For example, a home assessed at $150,000 with a combined rate of 400 mills would owe $150,000 ÷ 1,000 × 400 = $60,000 × 0.01 = $600 in property taxes for the year.

Available Exemptions

Colorado law offers several exemptions that can lower the taxable portion of your assessed value. Huerfano County applies these exemptions automatically when you qualify, but you must file the appropriate forms for most of them.

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by $150,000. This exemption is automatic for owners who occupy the property as their sole residence.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Available to Colorado residents age 65 or older with a household income at or below the state‑defined limit. The exemption reduces taxable value by $100,000.
• Disability Exemption: Qualifying individuals with a permanent disability can receive a $100,000 reduction in assessed value. Proof of disability and income verification are required.
• Veteran Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans (or surviving spouses) who served at least 90 days of active duty may receive a $100,000 reduction. Additional benefits apply for disabled veterans.

To claim non‑automatic exemptions, complete the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Form DR 1024 and submit it to the Huerfano County Assessor before the October 31 filing deadline.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Huerfano County property taxes are due in two installments:

• First installment: Due October 1. A discount of 2 % is offered if paid by the due date.
• Second installment: Due January 10 of the following year. No discount is available for this installment.

If you prefer a single payment, the total bill (both installments combined) must be paid by October 1 to receive the discount. Late payments incur a penalty of 2 % plus interest at the state‑prescribed rate, calculated from the day after the due date until the balance is paid in full.

Payments can be made online through the County’s e‑Pay portal, by mail, or in person at the Assessor’s Office. Setting up automatic bank drafts is encouraged to avoid missed deadlines.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process in Huerfano County follows these steps:

• File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the form to the County Assessor’s Office no later than September 30 (or 30 days after receiving the assessment notice, whichever is later).
• Gather Evidence: Provide recent comparable sales, a professional appraisal, or evidence of physical defects that affect value.
• Hearing: A hearing will be scheduled before the Huerfano County Board of Assessment Appeals. You may present your case in person or by written affidavit.
• Decision: The Board issues a written decision within 30 days of the hearing. If unsatisfied, you may appeal to the Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals.

Throughout the process, maintain copies of all correspondence and documentation. The County’s website offers detailed instructions and printable forms to help you navigate each step.