Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Hickory County

Property tax in Hickory County is determined by a formula involving the assessed value of your property and the local tax rates, known as millage rates or levy rates. The process begins with the Hickory County Assessor, who determines the "fair market value" of your real estate. Under Missouri law, property is assessed at a specific percentage of its market value: 19% for residential property, 32% for commercial property, and 12% for agricultural land.

Once the assessed value is established, it is multiplied by the combined tax levy rates of the various taxing jurisdictions that serve your property, such as the county government, school districts, and emergency service providers. The result is your total annual tax liability. These levies are set annually by the governing bodies of each district to fund local public services.

Available Exemptions

Missouri offers several programs to help reduce the tax burden for specific groups of taxpayers. It is important to note that these exemptions often require an annual application with the County Assessor’s office.

• Senior Citizen Property Tax Credit: Eligible seniors may qualify for a "circuit breaker" tax credit, which provides a refund for a portion of the property taxes paid.
• Disabled Veteran Property Tax Credit: Veterans who are 100% disabled due to a service-connected disability may be eligible for a total exemption of property taxes on their primary residence.
• Homestead Exemption: While Missouri does not have a broad, universal homestead exemption, certain tax-freeze programs exist for seniors in specific jurisdictions; please verify current local eligibility with the Assessor.
• Disabled Individuals: Certain property tax credits are available for individuals who are 100% disabled as defined by the Social Security Administration.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Hickory County are billed annually. Statements are typically mailed in November, and the full payment is due by December 31st of the same year. To be considered timely, payments must be postmarked by the December 31st deadline.

Hickory County generally does not offer installment plans for current-year taxes; the total amount is due in a single payment. Failure to pay by the deadline results in the accrual of interest and statutory penalties. If taxes remain unpaid into the following year, the property may be subject to a tax lien or eventual inclusion in the annual delinquent tax sale, which can lead to the loss of the property.

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 specific hierarchy:

• Informal Review: Contact the Hickory County Assessor’s office to discuss your valuation and provide any documentation, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales, that supports a lower value.
• Board of Equalization (BOE): If the informal review does not resolve the matter, you may file a formal appeal with the Hickory County Board of Equalization. This board holds hearings to review evidence and determine if an adjustment is warranted.
• State Tax Commission: Should you remain dissatisfied with the BOE’s decision, you may appeal further to the Missouri State Tax Commission.