Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Lincoln County

Lincoln County determines property tax based on the **assessed value** of real and personal property and the **combined millage rate** levied by the county, municipalities, school districts, and special districts. Each year the Lincoln County Assessor’s Office updates market values using the Colorado Real Estate‑Assessment Procedure (REAP). The assessed value is typically 7.15 % of the market value, though the assessor may apply adjustments for improvements or depreciation.

The **millage rate** is expressed in dollars per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if the total millage for a property is 60 mills (or $60 per $1,000) and the assessed value is $120,000, the annual tax bill would be $7,200. Millage rates can vary each fiscal year as local governments approve budgets, so the estimator updates rates annually to reflect the most current figures.

Available Exemptions

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

• Homestead exemption – Up to $150,000 of the market value is excluded for owner‑occupied residences, lowering the assessed value proportionally.
• Senior citizen exemption – Residents age 65 or older may receive an additional exemption of up to $125,000 in market value, subject to income limits.
• Disability exemption – Qualified persons with a permanent physical or mental disability can claim an exemption of up to $125,000 in market value, also based on income thresholds.
• Veteran exemptions –
  • Disabled veterans receive a $200,000 market‑value exemption for the disabled portion of the property.
  • Surviving spouses of deceased veterans may claim a $125,000 exemption.

All exemptions must be applied for through the Lincoln County Assessor’s Office, typically by the end of November for the upcoming tax year. Documentation such as proof of age, disability, or military service is required.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Lincoln County follows Colorado’s standard semi‑annual payment schedule:

• First installment – Due by March 1. Paying by this date avoids any interest or penalty.
• Second installment – Due by June 1. Late payment after this date incurs a 10 % penalty plus interest.

Property owners may also opt for a single‑payment plan (full amount due by March 1) or arrange a quarterly installment plan through the county treasurer, provided a written agreement is submitted before the first due date. Failure to pay on time can result in tax lien filing, possible tax sale, and additional collection costs.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to appeal:

• File a Notice of Appeal with the Lincoln County Assessor’s Office within 30 days of the notice of assessed value (usually mailed in late January).
• Gather supporting evidence such as recent sales of comparable properties, an independent appraisal, or documentation of property condition.
• Submit the appeal package – include the completed form, supporting documents, and any required filing fee.
• Board of Assessment and Tax Appeals (BATA) will schedule a hearing, often within 60 days of filing. You may present your case in person or by written statement.
• If BATA upholds the original assessment, you may further appeal to the Colorado Office of Administrative Courts.

Being organized, meeting all deadlines, and presenting clear, market‑based evidence are the most effective ways to achieve a favorable adjustment.