Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Washington County

In Washington County, property taxes are determined by a calculation involving 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 and personal property. Once the true value is established, it is multiplied by an assessment ratio—typically 10% for residential homes—to arrive at the "assessed value."

The total tax bill is then calculated by applying the millage rate (or tax rate) to the assessed value. The millage rate is set annually by the Washington County Board of Supervisors, the Greenville City Council (if applicable), and the local school district. One mill is equal to $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. Because these rates reflect the budgetary needs of local government, schools, and infrastructure, they may fluctuate from year to year.

Available Exemptions

Mississippi offers several exemptions designed to reduce the tax burden for qualifying residents. It is essential to apply for these through the Tax Assessor’s office to ensure your taxes are adjusted correctly.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to legal residents who occupy their primary home as of January 1 of the tax year. This provides a significant reduction in the assessed value for school tax purposes.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 or older may qualify for an additional homestead exemption, which can further reduce or eliminate school taxes on their primary residence.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals who are 100% disabled due to service-connected or non-service-connected causes may be eligible for a total exemption of all ad valorem taxes on their primary residence.
• Veteran Exemption: Qualified disabled veterans may be eligible for special exemptions provided by state statute, depending on the percentage and nature of their disability.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Washington County are due annually. Tax bills are typically mailed in the late fall, and the deadline for payment is February 1 of the following year. While Mississippi law generally requires payment in full, taxpayers should contact the Washington County Tax Collector’s office regarding any available partial payment arrangements.

Failure to pay by the February 1 deadline will result in interest and penalties. If taxes remain unpaid after the designated date, the property may be subject to a tax sale, where a tax lien is sold to cover the delinquent balance. To avoid these consequences, we strongly recommend prompt payment once your bill is received.

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 during the "open book" period, typically occurring in the summer months when the assessment rolls are open for public inspection. You must file a formal objection with the Washington County Board of Supervisors. Be prepared to provide evidence, such as recent appraisals, comparable sales in your neighborhood, or documentation regarding property damage, to support your claim for a valuation adjustment.