Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Scott County

Property taxes in Scott County are determined by two primary factors: the assessed value of your property and the local millage rate. Each year, the County Tax Assessor determines the "true value" of your real and personal property. Once the market value is established, it is multiplied by an assessment ratio—set by Mississippi state law—to arrive at the "assessed value." For residential property, this ratio is typically 10%.

The total tax bill is then calculated by multiplying the assessed value by the local millage rate. One mill is equal to $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. These rates are set annually by the Scott County Board of Supervisors, the local school board, and municipal governing authorities to fund essential public services such as education, road maintenance, law enforcement, and emergency response.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions to help reduce the tax burden on qualified homeowners. It is important to apply for these through the Tax Assessor’s office, as they are not applied automatically.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to individuals who own and occupy their primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year. This exemption reduces the taxable value of your home, potentially saving you significant costs.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may qualify for an additional exemption on their primary residence, providing further relief from school district taxes.
• Disability Exemption: Homeowners who are 100% permanently disabled according to the Social Security Administration or the Department of Veterans Affairs may be eligible for a full or partial exemption on their primary residence.
• Veteran Exemption: Certain disabled veterans or their unremarried surviving spouses may qualify for specific exemptions as provided by state statute.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills in Scott County are typically mailed in late fall and are due by February 1 of the following year. While full payment is the standard expectation, taxpayers should contact the Scott County Tax Collector’s office to inquire about current installment options or partial payment policies.

Timely payment is critical to avoid additional costs. If taxes remain unpaid after the February 1 deadline, interest and penalties will begin to accrue monthly. Delinquent taxes may eventually lead to the property being sold at a tax sale to recover the unpaid balance, which can jeopardize your ownership status. Always ensure your mailing address is current with the Tax Assessor to avoid missing your bill.

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 process begins with the Scott County Board of Supervisors during the equalization period, typically held in the summer. You must provide evidence to support your claim, such as recent appraisals, sales data of comparable properties in your neighborhood, or documentation of significant property damage. If you are dissatisfied with the local decision, further appeals may be directed to the Mississippi State Tax Commission.