Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Forrest County

Property taxes in Forrest County are based on the assessed value of your real estate, which is determined by the County Tax Assessor. In Mississippi, the assessment process distinguishes between agricultural and non-agricultural land. For residential properties, the market value is determined through periodic appraisals, and a specific percentage of that value is used to calculate the taxable assessment.

The actual tax amount is determined by the millage rate. A "mill" represents one dollar of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. The total millage rate is a combination of levies from the county, the school district, and municipal governments. To calculate your estimated tax, multiply the assessed value of your property by the total millage rate divided by 1,000.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions to reduce the taxable value of a home, which can significantly lower your annual tax burden. The most common include:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to homeowners who occupy the property as their primary residence. This removes a set amount of the home's value from taxation.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Additional tax relief may be available for residents over a certain age to help maintain homeownership on a fixed income.
• Disability Exemption: Special exemptions are provided for homeowners with total or partial disabilities.
• Veteran Exemptions: Various levels of relief or full exemptions may be available for disabled veterans or those who served in specific capacities.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Forrest County are typically billed annually. While the specific due date can vary by municipality, taxes are generally due by the end of the calendar year. It is critical to monitor the mail for your official tax notice from the Tax Collector.

Failure to pay by the deadline may result in the accrual of interest and late penalties. In some cases, the county may offer installment plans through specific programs, but the primary obligation remains a single annual payment. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to a tax sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued by the Tax Assessor, you have the right to appeal. The process generally begins by filing a formal notice of appeal with the County Board of Supervisors or the designated board of equalizers within a specific window after the assessment notice is mailed.

To build a strong case, homeowners are encouraged to provide evidence of comparable sales of similar properties in the area or a professional independent appraisal. If a resolution is not reached at the county level, the appeal may be taken further to the Mississippi State Board of Equalization.