Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Carver County

Property taxes in Carver County are determined by the interaction between your property's estimated market value and the local tax rates. Each year, the County Assessor determines the market value of your property based on real estate market trends and physical characteristics. This value is then adjusted by the state-mandated classification rate to determine your Tax Capacity.

The total tax you pay is based on the "tax levy," which is the total amount of money required by local taxing jurisdictions—including Carver County, your city or township, and your school district—to fund public services. The tax rate, or "mill rate," is calculated by dividing the total levy by the total tax capacity of all properties in the jurisdiction. Because tax rates are set annually based on budget requirements, your final tax bill may fluctuate even if your property value remains stable.

Available Exemptions

Minnesota law provides several programs to help reduce the tax burden for qualifying homeowners. These programs are administered at the state and county levels:

• Homestead Classification: The most common reduction, available to property owners who occupy their home as their primary residence. This can significantly reduce the taxable market value used to calculate your bill.
• Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral: Allows seniors (age 65+) with a household income of $96,000 or less to defer a portion of their property taxes as a low-interest loan from the state.
• Special Homestead Classification (Disability): Provides a valuation exclusion for homeowners who are permanently and totally disabled, or who have a qualifying medical condition.
• Disabled Veteran Homestead Exclusion: Offers a substantial market value exclusion for veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Carver County property taxes are typically billed in two installments. If your total tax exceeds $100, the first half is due by May 15th. The second half is due by October 15th for real estate, though agricultural properties may have different deadlines for the second installment.

If you fail to pay by these dates, the county is required by law to impose a penalty. Late payments will accrue interest and administrative fees that increase over time. Continued delinquency may result in the property being subject to tax judgment and potential forfeiture.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s estimated market value is inaccurate or higher than the actual market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization, usually held in the spring. You are encouraged to contact the Carver County Assessor’s office to discuss your valuation informally before attending a formal hearing. If you remain dissatisfied after the local board, you may appeal to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization or file a petition with the Minnesota Tax Court.