Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Clarke County

In Clarke 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. Once the true value is established, it is multiplied by an assessment ratio—set by Mississippi state law at 15% for residential and most commercial real estate—to arrive at the "assessed value."

The total tax bill is then calculated by applying the local millage rate to this assessed value. A "mill" represents one dollar of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. The total millage rate is the sum of taxes levied by the county, the school district, and any municipal entities where the property is located. These rates are adjusted annually based on budget requirements for public services like infrastructure, law enforcement, and education.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions to reduce the tax burden on eligible property owners. To qualify, you must be a legal resident of Mississippi and the property must be your primary residence. Key exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to all qualified homeowners, this reduces the taxable value of your primary residence, specifically shielding a portion of the value from school district taxes.
• Senior Citizens: Homeowners aged 65 and older may qualify for an additional exemption, often freezing the valuation of their primary residence at the level it was when they turned 65.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are 100% disabled due to service-connected or non-service-connected causes may be eligible for significant tax relief or total exemption, depending on specific state criteria.
• Veteran Exemptions: Veterans with specific service-connected disabilities may qualify for enhanced exemptions. Documentation from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is required for verification.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Clarke County are due annually. Tax bills are typically mailed in the fall, and payments must be received or postmarked by February 1st of the following year. While the county does not offer formal installment plans, it is vital to pay on time to avoid penalties.

Failure to pay by the deadline results in the accrual of interest and penalty fees. If taxes remain unpaid, the property will be subject to a tax sale, where a tax lien is auctioned to recover the delinquent funds. It is highly recommended to settle your account promptly to avoid the risk of foreclosure or additional legal costs.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property is inaccurate or inequitable compared to similar properties in Clarke County, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with the Clarke County Board of Supervisors.

• Review: Contact the Tax Assessor’s office to discuss the valuation and provide evidence, such as recent appraisals or documentation of structural issues.
• Formal Appeal: If a resolution is not reached, you may file a formal petition with the Board of Supervisors during their designated session, typically held in the summer.
• Evidence: Be prepared to provide comparable sales data or professional inspection reports to support your claim for a valuation adjustment.