Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Shoshone County

In Shoshone County, the county assessor’s office is responsible for determining the market value of every taxable property each year. The process begins on January 1, when the assessor publishes new corrected rolls after an in‑person inspection of properties. The stated value is the value that will be used for taxation purposes. Once the rolled values are accepted, the county boards calculate the annual tax burden by applying the current millage rates set by the county, the city of Ketchum, the city of Hailey, and any local school districts.

The millage rate is expressed in mills, where one mill equals one‑thousandth of a dollar. For example, a millage rate of 28.5 mills means that for every $1,000 of assessed value, the taxpayer owes $28.50. Shoshone County’s base millage rate is typically between 20 and 25 mills, but local jurisdictions often add supplemental mills for schools, infrastructure, and other services. Rate changes are usually approved in the annual county budget meeting and are posted on the Shoshone County Revenue Office website well before the calendar year starts.

Available Exemptions

Homeowners in Shoshone County can reduce their taxable assessed value through a number of exemptions defined by state law:

• Homestead Exemption – Provides a $10,000 exemption for the homeowner’s primary residence if the property is not listed for sale and is occupied as a primary residence.
• Senior Citizen Exemption – Available to residents 65 years or older with a home value the same as or less than the county median value. This exemption averages $7,000 per year.
• Disability Exemption – Offers a $4,000 exemption for those with a qualifying disability, regardless of age.
• Veteran Exemption – Homestead exemption enhanced by an additional $3,000 for veterans who are disabled or have served in the armed forces.

To qualify, applicants must file a complete exemption application with the county assessor’s office by the yearly filing deadline, usually in May. Missing the deadline can mean you miss out on several thousand dollars in savings.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Shoshone County are paid in two installments: the first on May 8 and the second on November 8. The assessor’s office sends an official tax bill for each property that includes the due dates, the total amount owed, and a clear description of the due principal, interest, and any applicable penalties.

If you prefer to pay over a year, the county offers a “budget payment” plan. This option spreads the tax liability evenly across 12 monthly payments, starting one month after the first installment due date. While convenient, the budget plan typically incurs a small balancing charge of 0.5% per year, which is calculated at the time of payment.

Late payments incur a penalty of 2% of the unpaid amount per month until the debt is cleared. Should the tax remain unpaid for more than 180 days, county agents may take legal action, including levying a county lien that can ultimately be foreclosed on the property. Because of these significant consequences, staying ahead of payment dates is critical.

Appealing Your Assessment

Property owners who disagree with the assessed value can file an appeal with the Shoshone County Assessment Review Board (ARB) within 30 days of the annual Office of the County Assessor’s publishing date. The appeal process begins with a written submission that includes evidence such as recent comparable sales, professional appraisals, or photographs showing condition or improvements.

After review, the ARB may hold a hearing where the property owner can represent themselves or be represented by a licensed appraiser. The board, composed of citizens elected by the county, examines the evidence, may order a new appraisal, and ultimately votes on any adjustment. If the decision is unfavorable, the owner can appeal to the Idaho Land Use Commission, but this step is rare and requires additional documentation.

Diligently reviewing your annual assessment and filing a timely appeal can save thousands of dollars. For guidance, visit the Shoshone County Revenue Office website or contact the assessor’s office directly to ensure you receive the best possible outcome for your property tax evaluation.