Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Hillsdale County

In Hillsdale County, property taxes are calculated based on the Taxable Value of your property multiplied by the local millage rate. The assessment process begins with your local assessor, who determines the Assessed Value (AV)—typically 50% of the property's True Cash Value. The Capped Value is then calculated annually, adjusting for inflation or the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower. Your Taxable Value is the lesser of the Assessed Value or the Capped Value. The millage rate, expressed in dollars per $1,000 of taxable value, is set by various taxing authorities, including the county, townships, schools, and special districts. When you use our estimator, please note that these figures are projections based on current millage rates and may fluctuate based on future voter-approved levies.

Available Exemptions

Michigan law provides several exemptions designed to reduce the tax burden for eligible residents. These exemptions must be applied for through your local township or city assessor’s office:

• Principal Residence Exemption (PRE): Homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence may exempt the property from a portion of local school operating taxes.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating are eligible for a full property tax exemption on their principal residence.
• Poverty Exemption: Residents facing financial hardship may apply for a reduction or exemption of property taxes based on federal poverty guidelines.
• Senior/Disability Deferments: Certain seniors and citizens with permanent disabilities may qualify to defer the payment of their summer property taxes until the following February.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Hillsdale County are typically collected in two installments. Summer taxes are generally levied on July 1st and are payable without penalty through September 14th. Winter taxes are levied on December 1st and are payable without penalty through February 14th of the following year. If payment is not received by these deadlines, interest and penalties accrue monthly. Failure to pay property taxes over an extended period can lead to the forfeiture of the property to the county treasurer through the tax foreclosure process. Always verify specific dates with your local treasurer’s office, as some municipalities may have varying collection schedules.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessment is inaccurate or exceeds 50% of its market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins in March at the local March Board of Review. You must appear in person or submit a written protest to the board to contest your assessment. It is highly recommended that you bring documentation, such as recent appraisals, comparable sales data, or photos of property damage, to support your claim. If you remain dissatisfied with the local board’s decision, you may further appeal to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. We encourage property owners to contact their local assessor for an informal review before the formal March proceedings.