Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Monroe County

In Monroe County, property taxes are determined by a combination of the assessed value of your property and the local millage rate. The process begins with the County Tax Assessor, who determines the "true value" of your real estate. Under Mississippi law, property is assessed at a specific percentage of its true value based on its classification: Class I (primary residences) are assessed at 10%, while Class II (commercial) and Class III (personal property) are assessed at 15%. Once the assessed value is established, the Monroe County Board of Supervisors and other local taxing authorities set the millage rates—the amount of tax per $1,000 of assessed value—to fund schools, roads, and county services. Multiplying your assessed value by the total millage rate provides your annual tax liability.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions designed to reduce the tax burden for qualified homeowners. These must be filed annually with the Monroe County Tax Assessor’s office:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to individuals who own and occupy their primary residence as of January 1. This exemption reduces the tax burden on the first $7,500 of the assessed value.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older as of January 1 may qualify for an additional exemption, often allowing for a total exemption on the first $7,500 of assessed value regardless of the property's classification.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are 100% disabled due to service-connected or non-service-connected causes may qualify for total exemption on the assessed value of their primary residence.
• Veteran Exemption: Certain disabled veterans or their unremarried surviving spouses may be eligible for specific exemptions as provided by state statutes.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Monroe County are due annually. The tax collection period typically begins in December, and payments must be received or postmarked by February 1 to avoid delinquency. While Monroe County generally requires a full payment, taxpayers should consult the Tax Collector’s office regarding any available installment plans or specific county policies. Failure to pay by the deadline results in the accrual of interest and penalties. Furthermore, if taxes remain unpaid, the property may be subject to a tax sale, where the state sells the delinquent tax lien to recover the outstanding balance.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued, you have the legal right to appeal the assessment. The process begins with the Monroe County Board of Supervisors or the Board of Review. You must file a formal objection during the designated window—typically in the summer months when the assessment rolls are open for public inspection. You will be required to provide evidence supporting your claim, such as recent appraisals, sales data of comparable properties in your area, or documentation of physical property defects. It is recommended to contact the Tax Assessor’s office early to discuss your valuation before the formal board hearing.