Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Lafayette County

Property tax in Lafayette County is determined by the assessed value of your property multiplied by the local millage rate. The process begins with the County Tax Assessor, who determines the "true value" of your real property. Once the true value is established, it is multiplied by the state-mandated assessment ratio—typically 10% for residential homes and 15% for commercial property—to arrive at the assessed value. This assessed value is then multiplied by the total millage rate (the sum of levies from the county, school district, and any applicable municipal entities) to calculate your annual tax burden. Because millage rates fluctuate based on annual budget requirements for local schools and government services, your total tax liability may change even if your property's assessed value remains constant.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions to reduce the tax burden on qualified homeowners. To benefit from these, you must apply through the Lafayette County Tax Assessor’s office.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to legal residents who occupy their primary home as of January 1st. This exemption helps reduce the amount of school district taxes owed.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may qualify for an additional exemption on the first $75,000 of their home's assessed value.
• Disability Exemption: Homeowners who are 100% disabled due to service-connected or non-service-connected factors may be eligible for a full exemption on the first $75,000 of assessed value.
• Veteran Exemption: Specific exemptions are available for disabled veterans as defined by state law; documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs is required for verification.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Lafayette County are due annually. The tax collection period begins in October, and payments must be received or postmarked by February 1st of the following year to avoid penalties. While the county generally requires payment in full, taxpayers are encouraged to verify if partial payment plans are accepted for their specific account status. Failure to pay by the February 1st deadline will result in the accrual of interest and penalties. Accounts that remain unpaid after the summer tax sale date may be subject to being sold for delinquent taxes, which can lead to significant additional costs and potential loss of property title.

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 begins by contacting the Lafayette County Tax Assessor’s office to discuss the valuation. If a resolution is not reached, you may formally appeal to the Lafayette County Board of Supervisors. This must be done during the designated protest period, which typically occurs after the tax rolls are opened for public inspection. You should be prepared to provide supporting documentation, such as recent appraisals, comparable sales in your neighborhood, or photographs of significant structural issues, to substantiate your claim.