Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Dickinson County

Property taxes in Dickinson County are calculated based on the Taxable Value of your property multiplied by the local millage rate. Each year, your local assessor determines the State Equalized Value (SEV), which represents 50% of your property's estimated market value. However, under Michigan law, your Taxable Value is capped by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 5%, whichever is lower, unless there has been a transfer of ownership.

The total millage rate applied to your property is the sum of various levies authorized by county, township, city, village, and school district voters. Because these rates vary depending on your specific taxing jurisdiction, the final tax bill reflects the unique financial requirements of your local school district and municipal services.

Available Exemptions

Michigan offers several programs to reduce the tax burden for qualifying homeowners. It is essential to file the necessary documentation with your local assessor’s office to receive these benefits:

• Principal Residence Exemption (PRE): Often called the "homestead exemption," this removes your property from a portion of local school operating taxes. You must own and occupy the home as your primary residence.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Provides a 100% property tax exemption for honorably discharged veterans who have been determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be permanently and totally disabled.
• Poverty Exemption: Available to homeowners who meet specific income and asset guidelines established by their local board of review.
• Senior Citizen and Disability Deferments: Certain taxpayers may be eligible to defer the payment of summer property taxes if they meet specific age, income, or disability criteria.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Dickinson County are generally issued in two installments:

• Summer Taxes: Typically mailed on July 1st and due by September 14th without penalty.
• Winter Taxes: Typically mailed on December 1st and due by February 14th of the following year.

If payments are not received by the due date, interest and penalties accrue monthly. After February 28th, unpaid taxes are considered delinquent and are turned over to the Dickinson County Treasurer. Once delinquent, additional fees are added, and the property eventually becomes subject to the tax foreclosure process if balances remain unpaid for an extended period.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed or taxable value is inaccurate, you have the right to appeal. The process begins at the local level:

1. March Board of Review: You must first protest your assessment at the local March Board of Review. You will be provided with a specific meeting date and time by your local unit of government.
2. Michigan Tax Tribunal: If you are dissatisfied with the Board of Review's decision, you may appeal to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. Note that for residential property, you must have attended the March Board of Review before filing with the Tribunal.

It is recommended to gather documentation, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales data, to support your claim before meeting with the board.