Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Audrain County

Property taxes in Audrain County are determined by a combination of the property's assessed value and the local tax levies. The process begins with the County Assessor, who determines the "true market value" of your real estate. Under Missouri law, residential property is assessed at 19% of its market value, while agricultural property is assessed at 12% and commercial property at 32%.

Once the assessed value is established, it is multiplied by the local tax rate, often referred to as the millage rate. These rates are set by various taxing entities, including school districts, the county government, cities, and fire protection districts. The sum of these rates constitutes your total tax burden. Because these rates fluctuate based on voter-approved bonds and budget requirements, your total tax liability may change annually even if your property's assessed value remains stable.

Available Exemptions

Missouri offers several programs to provide tax relief to specific groups of homeowners. These exemptions can significantly reduce your tax burden if you qualify:

• General Homestead Credit (Circuit Breaker): While not a direct property tax exemption, the Missouri Property Tax Credit claim provides a rebate to qualifying seniors and individuals with disabilities for a portion of their real estate taxes paid.
• Senior Citizens: Certain counties have implemented a "Senior Property Tax Freeze," which prevents the tax liability on a primary residence from increasing once a homeowner reaches the age of 65. Verify current eligibility with the Audrain County Collector’s office.
• Veterans: Missouri provides specific exemptions for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability. This exemption typically applies to the primary residence of the veteran or their surviving spouse.
• Disability Exemptions: Beyond the state-wide circuit breaker, individuals with documented permanent disabilities may qualify for additional state-level assistance programs depending on income thresholds.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

In Audrain County, property tax bills are typically mailed in November of each year. To avoid penalties, all payments must be postmarked or received by the County Collector’s office no later than December 31. Missouri law does not provide for installment payments; the full amount is due in a single payment by the end of the calendar year.

Failure to pay by the December 31 deadline results in the accrual of interest and penalties, which increase monthly. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the county may initiate the process of placing a tax lien on the property, which could eventually lead to a tax sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property is inaccurate or exceeds its fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with an informal meeting with the Audrain County Assessor’s office to discuss the valuation. If you remain dissatisfied, you may file a formal appeal with the Audrain County Board of Equalization. Should the issue persist, further appeals can be directed to the Missouri State Tax Commission. It is essential to provide documentation, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales data, to support your claim.