Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Scott County

Property taxes in Scott County are determined by a combination of the property’s estimated market value and the local tax rate, often referred to as the mill rate or tax capacity rate. Each year, the County Assessor’s office determines the estimated market value of your property based on current real estate market trends and physical inspections. This value is then adjusted by the state-mandated classification rate to determine your "tax capacity." The final tax amount is calculated by multiplying this tax capacity by the local tax rate, which is set by the county, city, township, and school district to fund essential public services like roads, law enforcement, and education.

Available Exemptions

Minnesota offers several property tax relief programs to help eligible homeowners reduce their tax burden. These programs are designed to support residents based on their specific life circumstances:

• Homestead Credit: The most common exemption, available for owner-occupied residential properties. It reduces the taxable value of your home, potentially lowering your tax bill.
• Senior Citizen Property Tax Deferral: Allows seniors (age 65 or older) to defer a portion of their property taxes if they meet specific income and ownership requirements.
• Disability Exemptions: Special classifications exist for individuals with permanent and total disabilities, which may qualify the property for a lower tax rate.
• Veteran Benefits: Minnesota provides a market value exclusion for veterans with a service-connected disability, significantly reducing the taxable base for those who qualify.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

In Scott County, property taxes are generally paid in two installments. For residential properties, the first half of the tax is due by May 15th, and the second half is due by October 15th. If the due date falls on a weekend, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. Taxpayers have several convenient options for payment, including online portals, mail-in checks, or in-person payments at the Scott County Government Center. It is critical to meet these deadlines; late payments are subject to statutory penalties that increase incrementally the longer the balance remains unpaid. Failure to pay property taxes can eventually result in tax forfeiture proceedings.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s estimated market value is inaccurate or higher than its actual market worth, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with an informal review with the Scott County Assessor’s office. If you remain dissatisfied, you may present your case to the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization. If the issue is not resolved, the next step is the County Board of Appeal and Equalization. Finally, taxpayers may choose to petition the Minnesota Tax Court. It is recommended that you gather evidence, such as recent appraisals or sales data of comparable homes in your neighborhood, to support your appeal before attending any scheduled hearings.