Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Martin County

Martin County assesses residential, commercial and industrial properties at 100 % of their market value on the first day of the assessment year (January 1). The County Property Appraiser determines this “true cash value” by reviewing recent comparable sales, property improvements, and any changes in zoning. Once the assessed value is set, the tax bill is calculated by applying the combined millage rate, which is expressed as dollars per $1,000 of assessed value.

For fiscal year 2025‑2026 the total millage rate for a typical single‑family home is approximately 13.2 mills (or $13.20 per $1,000 of value). This figure includes the County’s general levy, the Board of County Commissioners, the School District, the Water Management District, and any special district assessments (e.g., fire‑rescue or library). The rate can vary slightly from year to year based on budgetary needs and voter‑approved referenda.

• Assessed Value: 100 % of market value (rounded to the nearest $5).
• Millage Rate: Combined rate of all taxing authorities, expressed in mills.
• Tax Calculation: (Assessed Value ÷ 1,000) × Total Millage Rate = Annual Property Tax.

Available Exemptions

Florida law provides several exemptions that can significantly reduce your taxable base. In Martin County you may qualify for one or more of the following, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and submit the appropriate application to the Martin County Property Appraiser.

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $50,000 for a primary residence. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes; the second $25,000 applies to non‑school taxes only.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: An additional $5,000 for owners 65 years or older with an annual income ≤ $31,000.
• Disability Exemption: Up to $5,000 for persons with qualifying disabilities (e.g., blindness, hearing loss, or mobility impairments) and income ≤ $31,000.
• Veteran Exemption: Up to $5,000 for honorably discharged veterans (or surviving spouses) who are permanently disabled or 65 years or older.

All exemptions must be applied for by March 1 of the tax year. The Property Appraiser will verify residency, age, income, or disability status before granting the reduction.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Martin County follows the statewide Florida property tax collection calendar. The total tax bill is split into two installments:

• First Installment: Due November 1, with a penalty beginning after December 31 if unpaid.
• Second Installment: Due March 1, with a penalty beginning after April 1 if unpaid.

If you pay the full amount by the November 1 deadline, you avoid any penalties and interest. Many residents elect to set up automatic bank debit or pay online through the Martin County Tax Collector’s portal to ensure timely payment.

Late payments incur a 3 % penalty plus interest calculated at the state‑prescribed rate. Continued non‑payment can lead to a tax lien, wage garnishment, or a tax deed sale of the property.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to contest it through the Value Adjustment Board (VAB). The appeal process in Martin County consists of the following steps:

• File a Notice of Protest: Submit the form to the Martin County Property Appraiser by July 31 of the assessment year.
• Gather Evidence: Include recent comparable sales, independent appraisals, or photographs showing property condition.
• Attend the Hearing: The VAB will schedule a public hearing, usually in August or September. You may represent yourself or hire a qualified attorney.
• Decision: The VAB issues a written decision within 30 days. If you disagree, you may appeal to the Circuit Court within 30 days of the VAB decision.

Prompt filing is essential—missed deadlines result in the loss of the right to contest that year’s assessment. For guidance, contact the Martin County Property Appraiser’s Office or consult a local real‑estate attorney experienced in tax appeals.