Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Madison County

Property taxes in Madison County are calculated based on the assessed value of your real estate and the local millage rate. The process begins with the Madison County Tax Assessor, who determines the "true value" of your property. For residential property, the state of Mississippi mandates an assessment ratio of 10% of the true value. This resulting figure is your "assessed value."

The total tax bill is determined by multiplying the assessed value by the millage rate, which is a combination of levies set by the County Board of Supervisors, local school districts, and municipal governments. Because millage rates vary depending on your specific school district and city limits, your tax obligation is unique to your property's physical location.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions to help reduce the tax burden for qualifying homeowners. To receive these benefits, you must apply through the Tax Assessor’s office.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence. This exemption reduces the taxable assessed value of your home.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may qualify for an additional exemption, often freezing the assessed value of their primary residence at the level it was at the time they turned 65.
• Disability Exemption: Homeowners who are 100% disabled as defined by the Social Security Administration or other qualifying agencies may be eligible for significant tax relief.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating may be eligible for a total or partial exemption on their primary residence.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Madison County are due annually. The tax collection cycle typically follows this schedule:

• Due Date: Taxes are due by February 1st of the year following the tax assessment.
• Installment Options: While full payment is preferred, taxpayers may pay in installments provided the final balance is cleared by the February deadline to avoid penalties.
• Late Penalties: If taxes are not paid by the deadline, interest and penalties accrue monthly. Failure to pay property taxes may result in your property being sold at the annual tax sale held in August, which can lead to the loss of property ownership if the taxes remain unpaid during the redemption period.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property is higher than its fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The process is time-sensitive and must be initiated during the period when the tax rolls are open for public inspection, typically in the summer months. You must file a formal objection with the Madison County Board of Supervisors. It is recommended that you provide supporting documentation, such as recent appraisals, sales comparisons of similar properties in your neighborhood, or evidence of structural damage, to justify your request for an adjustment.