Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Washington County

Washington County property taxes are calculated by multiplying the assessed value of a parcel by the combined millage rate set by local taxing authorities. The Colorado Department of Revenue first determines a property's market value as of January 1st each year. The county assessor then applies a uniform assessment ratio (generally 7.15 % for residential real‑estate) to arrive at the assessed value used for tax purposes.

Once the assessed value is established, the total millage rate is layered from several sources:

• County Millage: Covers road maintenance, law enforcement, and county services.
• Municipal or Special District Millage: If your property lies within an incorporated town (e.g., Fairplay) or a special district (e.g., fire protection, water), additional rates apply.
• School District Millage: The largest component, reflecting funding for K‑12 education.
• State and Federal Overrides: Colorado’s flat 7.15 % assessment ratio and any statewide tax relief programs.

The combined millage for Washington County typically ranges from 98 % to 115 % (or 9.8‑11.5 mills). To estimate your tax bill, multiply the assessed value by the total millage rate and divide by 1,000.

Available Exemptions

Colorado law provides several exemptions that reduce the taxable portion of your assessment. Washington County applies these statewide exemptions, and some may be adjusted locally.

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $2,000 is subtracted from the assessed value of your primary residence, decreasing the taxable base.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive a $500 exemption for each qualifying senior in the household.
• Disability Exemption: Qualified disabled persons can claim a $500 exemption per disabled individual residing in the home.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans with a service‑connected disability can claim a $500 exemption; surviving spouses of deceased veterans may also qualify.

All exemptions are applied before the millage rate is multiplied, so they directly lower the amount of tax due. Applications are filed with the Washington County Assessor’s Office, typically by March 31 of the tax year, and must be renewed annually.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Washington County property taxes are billed in two equal installments. The first installment is due on March 1, and the second on September 1. You may pay online through the County’s secure portal, by mail, or in person at the Treasurer’s office.

• Early‑Payment Discount: A 2 % discount is offered if the March 1 installment is paid by February 15.
• Late Fees: Payments not received by the due date incur a 5 % penalty plus interest at the current state rate, calculated daily.
• Partial Payments: The county accepts partial payments, but any amount received after the deadline will still be subject to the full penalty on the outstanding balance.
• Installment Plans: Homeowners experiencing financial hardship may request a customized payment schedule by contacting the Treasurer’s Office before the March deadline.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property's assessed value is too high, Washington County offers a straightforward appeals process.

• File a Notice of Appeal: Submit the form to the County Assessor’s Office by June 30 of the tax year. Include supporting evidence such as recent appraisals, comparable sales, or error in property description.
• Informal Review: An assessor will meet with you to discuss the evidence. Many disputes are resolved at this stage without a formal hearing.
• Formal Hearing: If the informal review does not change the assessment, you may request a hearing before the County Board of Equalization. The board meets quarterly; schedule your appearance promptly.
• Further Appeal: Unfavorable board decisions can be taken to the Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals within 30 days of the board’s written ruling.

Prepare a clear, concise presentation of facts and keep copies of all correspondence. The earlier you act, the more likely you are to achieve a favorable adjustment.