Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Daviess County

Property taxes in Daviess County are calculated based on the assessed value of your real estate and the combined tax rates of local taxing jurisdictions. The process begins with the County Assessor, who determines the "market value" of your property. Under Missouri law, residential property is assessed at 19% of its true market value, while agricultural property is assessed based on its productive capability. This resulting figure is known as the "assessed value." To determine your final tax bill, the county applies a "millage rate" (or tax levy), which is the sum of rates set by schools, the county government, and other local service districts. These rates are expressed in dollars per $100 of assessed value.

Available Exemptions

Missouri offers several programs designed to provide tax relief to specific groups of homeowners. It is important to note that these programs are often income-based or specific to certain eligibility criteria:

• Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief: The "Circuit Breaker" tax credit helps seniors and individuals with disabilities by providing a credit against state income tax for a portion of the property taxes paid.
• Disabled Veteran Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating may be eligible for a total exemption from property taxes on their primary residence.
• Homestead Exemption: While Missouri does not have a traditional "homestead exemption" that lowers the assessed value of all homes, the state provides various tax freezes and credits for eligible seniors and disabled individuals to prevent displacement due to rising tax burdens.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

In Daviess County, property tax bills are typically mailed in November of each year. The payment deadline for all annual property taxes is December 31st. Payments must be postmarked or received by the County Collector’s office by this date to avoid penalties. It is important to note that Missouri law does not generally offer installment plans for current-year real estate taxes; the full amount is due in a single payment. If taxes remain unpaid after December 31st, they are considered delinquent. Penalties and interest accrue monthly on delinquent accounts. Failure to pay property taxes over an extended period can eventually lead to the property being sold at a delinquent 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 follows a structured path:

• Informal Review: Contact the Daviess County Assessor’s office to discuss your property valuation and provide evidence of value, such as recent appraisals or sales data of similar homes.
• Board of Equalization: If the informal review does not resolve your concern, you may file a formal appeal with the Daviess County Board of Equalization. This board reviews evidence from both the taxpayer and the assessor.
• State Tax Commission: If you remain dissatisfied with the Board of Equalization's decision, the final level of appeal is the Missouri State Tax Commission.