Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Queen Anne'S County

Property taxes in Queen Anne’s County are determined by two primary factors: the assessed value of your property and the combined tax rate (millage). The Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) conducts property assessments every three years. Your property’s "full cash value" is determined based on market conditions, and you are taxed on this assessed value. The total tax bill is calculated by multiplying the assessed value by the sum of the state, county, and municipal tax rates. Because Queen Anne’s County utilizes a triennial assessment cycle, property owners receive a notice of assessment every three years, which may result in a phase-in of any increase in value over the subsequent three-year period.

Available Exemptions

Maryland offers several tax relief programs designed to reduce the financial burden on eligible homeowners. These exemptions can significantly lower your effective tax rate:

• Homestead Property Tax Credit: This limits the annual increase in taxable assessment on your principal residence to a fixed percentage (typically 10%), protecting homeowners from sharp spikes in market value.
• Senior Citizen Tax Credit: Residents aged 65 and older who meet specific income and residency requirements may be eligible for a local tax credit.
• Disability Exemptions: Individuals who are permanently and totally disabled may qualify for specific exemptions or credits regarding their primary residence.
• Veterans’ Exemptions: Honorably discharged veterans with a permanent service-connected disability, or their surviving spouses, may be eligible for a full exemption from real property taxes on their primary residence.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

In Queen Anne’s County, property tax bills are typically mailed in July. The tax year runs from July 1 through June 30. You have several options for meeting your obligations:

• Full Payment: Taxes are considered current if paid in full by September 30.
• Installment Plan: Many homeowners utilize the semi-annual payment schedule. The first half is due by September 30, and the second half is due by December 31.
• Late Penalties: Payments not received by the specified deadlines incur interest and penalties, which accrue monthly. Failure to pay property taxes can eventually lead to a tax lien being placed on the property and, in extreme cases, a tax sale of the property.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property assessment is inaccurate or does not reflect the fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins upon receipt of your triennial assessment notice. You must file a written appeal with the Supervisor of Assessments for Queen Anne’s County within 45 days of the date printed on your notice. The process generally involves an informal hearing with an assessment official. If you remain dissatisfied with the outcome of the informal hearing, you may further appeal to the Property Tax Assessment Appeals Board (PTAAB) and subsequently to the Maryland Tax Court.