Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Murray County

In Murray County, property taxes are calculated based on the assessed market value of your property as determined by the County Assessor’s office. Each year, the assessor evaluates properties to ensure they reflect current market conditions. Once the taxable value is established, the local taxing authorities—including the county, city or township, and school district—set their annual budgets. These budgets are divided by the total taxable value of all property within the jurisdiction to arrive at the local tax rate, often expressed as a percentage or mill rate. Your specific tax bill is the product of your property’s taxable value multiplied by the combined tax rates of all local jurisdictions applicable to your parcel.

Available Exemptions

Minnesota offers several property tax relief programs designed to reduce the burden on eligible homeowners. Key exemptions and credits include:

• Homestead Credit: Available to homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence. This status often qualifies the owner for reduced tax rates and potential valuation exclusions.
• Senior Citizen Property Tax Deferral: Allows seniors aged 65 or older with a household income of $96,000 or less to defer a portion of their property taxes.
• Disability Exemptions: Specific programs, such as the Special Homestead Classification, provide reduced tax rates for blind or permanently disabled residents.
• Veteran Exemptions: Minnesota provides market value exclusions for veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher, with additional benefits available for the surviving spouses of deceased veterans.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Murray County are typically payable in two installments. For residential property, the first half of the tax is due by May 15th, and the second half is due by October 15th. If the tax amount is $100 or less, the full payment is due by May 15th. Payments can be made via mail, in person at the Murray County Treasurer’s office, or through the county’s online payment portal. Please note that failure to meet these deadlines will result in the assessment of penalties. Interest accrues on delinquent taxes at a rate determined by state law, and persistent non-payment may eventually lead to tax forfeiture proceedings.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property exceeds its actual market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization, which meets in the spring. Property owners are encouraged to first contact the Murray County Assessor’s office to discuss the valuation informally, as many concerns can be resolved through a simple review of the property data. If an agreement is not reached, you may present your case to the Local Board. If you are still dissatisfied, you may appeal to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization or file a petition with the Minnesota Tax Court.