Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Amite County

In Amite County, property taxes are determined by a combination of the property’s assessed value and the local millage rate. The process begins with the County Tax Assessor, who determines the "true value" of your property. For residential property, this is generally assessed at 10% of its fair market value. Once the assessed value is established, it is multiplied by the millage rate—the tax rate set by the Board of Supervisors, school districts, and other taxing authorities. One mill is equal to $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. Because these rates are set annually to meet budget requirements, your total tax liability may fluctuate based on local government funding needs.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi law provides several exemptions to help reduce the tax burden for qualified homeowners. These exemptions must be applied for annually through the Tax Assessor’s office:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence. This exemption reduces the total tax bill by shielding a portion of the property's assessed value from certain school taxes.
• Senior Citizens: Homeowners aged 65 and older may qualify for an additional homestead exemption, providing further relief on the assessed value of their primary residence.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are 100% permanently and totally disabled, as certified by authorized agencies, may be eligible for a full or significant reduction in property taxes on their primary residence.
• Veteran Exemptions: Mississippi offers specific exemptions for veterans with service-connected total disabilities. Requirements vary based on the nature of the disability and residency status.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax payments in Amite County are due annually. The collection period typically opens in late fall, and the deadline to pay without penalty is February 1 of the following year. While Amite County generally requires full payment, it is advisable to check with the Tax Collector’s office regarding any local installment policies or specific grace periods. Failure to pay by the statutory deadline will result in the accrual of interest and penalties. If taxes remain unpaid, the property may eventually be subject to a tax sale, where a tax lien is sold to cover the delinquent amount.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property is inaccurate or exceeds its fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The process typically begins during the assessment review period, usually held in the summer months. Property owners should first contact the Amite County Tax Assessor’s office to discuss the valuation and present evidence—such as recent appraisals or sales data of comparable properties—that supports a lower valuation. If an informal resolution cannot be reached, you may formally appeal to the Board of Supervisors. It is essential to adhere strictly to the published deadlines for filing an appeal, as late submissions will not be considered.