Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Somerset County

In Somerset County, property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your real estate as determined by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Every three years, the SDAT reassesses properties to reflect current market conditions. The tax bill you receive is the product of your property’s assessed value multiplied by the combined tax rates of the state, county, and any applicable municipal districts. While the state sets a base rate, the Somerset County Board of Commissioners determines the local tax rate annually to fund essential public services, including schools, infrastructure, and public safety.

Available Exemptions

Maryland offers several tax relief programs designed to reduce the financial burden on eligible homeowners. It is important to apply for these exemptions through the SDAT to ensure your bill is accurate:

• Homestead Property Tax Credit: This limits the annual increase in taxable assessment for owner-occupied residential properties, capping the growth at a fixed percentage (usually 10%) per year.
• Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit Program: This state-funded program provides credits for homeowners who meet specific household income requirements, regardless of age.
• Senior Citizen Property Tax Credit: Somerset County offers a local supplement for residents aged 65 and older who meet specific income and residency criteria.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected, permanent disability rating, or their surviving spouses, may be eligible for a full exemption from real property taxes on their primary residence.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills in Somerset County are typically mailed in July for the fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30. Payments are due in full by September 30 to avoid interest and penalties. However, the county offers a semi-annual payment option for owner-occupied residential properties:

• First Installment: Due by September 30.
• Second Installment: Due by December 31.

Failure to pay by the established deadlines results in monthly interest charges, typically calculated at 1% per month. If taxes remain unpaid, the property may eventually be subject to a tax sale, where the county sells a lien against the property to recover delinquent funds.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate or does not reflect the fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with a formal request for a review by the local SDAT office within 45 days of the date on your assessment notice. You must provide evidence, such as recent appraisals or documentation of comparable home sales, to support your claim. If the supervisor’s review does not resolve the issue, you may further appeal to the Property Tax Assessment Appeals Board (PTAAB) for a formal hearing.