Rate Breakdown

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

Welcome to the Sedgwick County, Colorado property‑tax estimator. Understanding how your real‑estate taxes are calculated, what exemptions you may qualify for, when to pay, and how to contest an assessment can save you time and money. Use the information below as a quick reference while you run your estimate.

How Property Tax Works in Sedgwick County

Each year the Sedgwick County Assessor’s Office determines the taxable value of every parcel by applying the Colorado “fair market value” rule. The process involves:

• Market‑Value Assessment: The assessor records the most recent sale price or, for newer properties, an appraisal based on comparable sales, improvements, and land value.
• Assessment Ratio: Colorado law caps the taxable portion at 7.15 % of the market value for residential property and 9 % for commercial/industrial parcels.
• Millage Rates: The County Board of Commissioners, school districts, and special districts set their mill rates each fiscal year. The combined rate for Sedgwick County typically ranges from 60 to 80 mills (0.060–0.080 %). Multiply the assessed value by the total millage to arrive at the gross tax bill.

Example: A home with a market value of $250,000 has an assessed value of $250,000 × 7.15 % = $17,875. If the total millage is 72 mills (0.072), the annual tax would be $17,875 × 0.072 ≈ $1,286.

Available Exemptions

Colorado provides several exemptions that directly reduce the assessed value before the millage is applied. Sedgwick County honors all statewide exemptions.

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $200,000 of the market value for owner‑occupied residences is exempt, lowering the taxable portion.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 + can receive an additional $200,000 exemption, plus a $50,000 exemption for each dependent under 65 living in the home.
• Disability Exemption: Qualified disabled homeowners may claim an extra $200,000 exemption on their primary residence.
• Veteran Exemption: Active duty, disabled, or surviving spouses of Colorado veterans may obtain a $200,000 exemption, with additional benefits for service‑connected disabilities.

Exemptions are applied cumulatively, but the total exemption cannot exceed the market value of the property. Claimants must file the appropriate forms with the County Assessor by March 1 of each tax year.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Sedgwick County are due in two installments. Timely payment avoids interest and penalties.

• First Installment: Due October 1; a 5 % discount is offered if paid by October 15.
• Second Installment: Due January 1 of the following year; no discount is available.
• Late Payments: A 10 % penalty plus 1 % interest per month accrues after the due date. Continued delinquency can lead to tax lien placement and possible foreclosure.
• Payment Options: Taxes can be paid online through the County’s portal, by mail, at the Treasurer’s office, or via automatic bank draft.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to protest.

• Notice of Intent: File a Notice of Intent to Protest with the Sedgwick County Assessor’s Office by July 31 of the assessment year.
• Supporting Evidence: Gather recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or proof of physical deficiencies.
• Formal Hearing: The County Review Board will schedule a hearing, typically within 30 days of your filing. You may be represented by an attorney or a qualified tax consultant.
• Decision & Further Appeal: The board’s decision is final for the year, but you can appeal to the Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals within 20 days if you disagree.

Act promptly; missing a deadline can forfeit your right to contest the assessment for that tax year.