Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Garrett County

In Maryland, property taxes are determined by two primary factors: the assessed value of your property and the combined tax rate (millage). The State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) is responsible for determining the market value of your property, which is reassessed on a three-year cycle. This assessed value serves as the base for your tax bill.

The total tax rate is the sum of the State of Maryland property tax rate, the Garrett County government rate, and, if applicable, the municipal rate for your specific town. While the SDAT sets the value, the Garrett County Commissioners set the county tax rate annually during the budget process. Because of Maryland’s "Homestead Tax Credit," your actual tax liability may be capped, preventing significant year-over-year increases on your primary residence even if your property's assessed value rises sharply.

Available Exemptions

Maryland offers several tax relief programs to help reduce the financial burden on specific groups of taxpayers:

• Homestead Property Tax Credit: Limits the annual increase in the taxable assessment of your primary residence to a fixed percentage (typically 10% or less in Garrett County). You must apply for this once to remain eligible.
• Senior Citizen Property Tax Credit: Available to homeowners aged 65 and older who meet specific income and asset requirements established by the county.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Provides a full exemption from real property taxes for veterans who have a 100% service-connected, permanent, and total disability.
• Blind Persons Exemption: A specific reduction in the assessed value of the dwelling for individuals who are legally blind.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills in Garrett County are generally mailed in July. The tax year runs from July 1 through June 30 of the following year.

• Annual Payment: If paying in full, the deadline is September 30.
• Semi-Annual Option: Taxpayers may choose to pay in two installments. The first half is due by September 30, and the second half is due by December 31.

Failure to pay by the specified deadlines will result in interest and penalties. Interest typically accrues at a rate of 1% per month for each month the payment is late. If taxes remain unpaid, the county may initiate a tax sale process, which can ultimately lead to the loss of the property.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is incorrect, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with the Supervisor of Assessments for Garrett County. You may file an appeal within 45 days of the date on your assessment notice. The first step is typically a local hearing with the assessment office. If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of that hearing, you may further appeal to the Property Tax Assessment Appeals Board (PTAAB) and subsequently to the Maryland Tax Court. It is recommended that you gather evidence, such as recent sales of comparable properties in your area, to support your claim.