Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Lauderdale County

Property taxes in Lauderdale County are calculated based on the assessed value of your real property and the applicable 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 10% for residential and most commercial property—to arrive at the assessed value.

The total tax bill is then determined by applying the millage rate (or tax rate) to your assessed value. A mill is equal to $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. The final millage rate is a combination of levies from the county, the local school district, and the municipality in which the property is located. These rates are adjusted annually based on budget requirements for public services, such as road maintenance, law enforcement, and education.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions to help reduce the tax burden for eligible property owners. To qualify, you must file an application with the Lauderdale County Tax Assessor’s office.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to primary residents who own and occupy their home as their main domicile. This exemption reduces the total tax liability on the first $7,500 of assessed value.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may be eligible for a total exemption from all ad valorem taxes on the first $7,500 of assessed value, regardless of the property's total value.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are 100% permanently disabled as certified by the Social Security Administration or other qualifying agencies may receive a total exemption on the first $7,500 of assessed value.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans who are 100% service-connected disabled are eligible for a total exemption from all ad valorem taxes on their primary residence.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

In Lauderdale County, property taxes are due annually. The tax collection period typically begins in December, and all payments must be received or postmarked by February 1st of the following year to avoid penalties.

Taxpayers may choose to pay in full or utilize the state-sanctioned installment plan. If choosing installments, payments are generally divided into three equal portions due in February, May, and July. It is vital to adhere to these dates; failure to pay by the deadline results in interest charges and penalties. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to a tax sale, which can eventually lead to the loss of property ownership.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property is inaccurate or higher than the fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process begins with the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors. You must file a formal objection during the designated window, typically in the summer months when the assessment rolls are open for public inspection. Be prepared to provide evidence, such as recent appraisals, photographs of property damage, or comparable sales data, to support your claim for a valuation adjustment.