Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Caribou County

Property tax in Caribou County follows the standard Idaho framework. Every October 15th the County Assessor’s Office conducts a full market value assessment of all real‑property parcels within the jurisdiction. The assessed value is then multiplied by the county’s millage rate and any applicable city or special district millages to arrive at your tax bill. The combined rate for the 2024 fiscal year is approximately 12.47 mills, meaning you owe roughly 1.247% of your assessed property value.

The assessment process is guided by the Idaho Real Property Appraisal and Taxation Act, which mandates that assessed values approximate the lowest fair market value in the previous year, adjusted for inflation and changes in instrumentalities such as property improvements or depreciation. After the assessment, a public record of the values becomes available on the Caribou County Assessor’s website for review by owners and prospective buyers.

Available Exemptions

Idaho offers several exemptions that can reduce the taxable amount on eligible properties. Caribou County follows state directives and listed exemptions are available for:

• Homestead Exemption: If your primary residence is in Caribou County, you may qualify for a $10,000 reduction in assessed value. To claim, file a homestead application with the Assessor’s Office before the deadline.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older (or 60 with a qualifying disability) can receive a $15,000 exemption. Proof of age and residency is required.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are blind or disabled can claim a $25,000 exempt amount. Certification from the Department of Rehabilitation is mandatory.
• Veteran Exemption: California veterans receive a $5,000 exemption, while disabled veterans can obtain $10,000. Submit a certified veteran status letter.

All exemptions are cumulative; for example, a senior veteran may combine the senior and veteran exemptions, totaling $20,000 off the assessed value. After exemptions, the remaining taxable amount is multiplied by the county’s millage rate.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Caribou County imposes a two‑installment payment schedule to help taxpayers manage cash flow. The first installment—50% of the annual bill—is due on January 15th, while the balance is due on August 1st. Both deadlines are strict; a 5% late fee applies after each deadline, and $10.00 service fees accrue for each late payment. If you anticipate difficulty meeting the deadlines, you may request a single full‑payment settlement, which will net a 2% discount.

Payments can be made via check, money order, or online through the County Treasurer’s portal. Original checks are mailed to the Treasurer’s office, whereas online payments can be scheduled on the first of each month. Be sure to include your parcel number on the front of any check. Late payments after the second deadline result in tax lien proceedings and possible auction of the property if unpaid within a year.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your assessed value exceeds the true market value, you may file an appeal with the Caribou County Tax Board. Appeals must be lodged within 30 days of receiving the official assessment notice. The process involves submitting a written appeal request, supporting documentation (e.g., recent comparable sales, professional appraisals), and a $75 filing fee.

Once received, the Tax Board assigns an examiner who reviews the evidence, may conduct a site visit, and issues a written decision within 90 days. If you disagree with the examiner’s ruling, you can request a hearing before the Tax Appeals Committee, which will conduct a live or remote trial. The final decision is binding, but if you’re dissatisfied, the next step is a judicial review in the county court. Following resolution, any changes are reflected in the next-year tax bill.