Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Mississippi County

Property taxes in Mississippi County, Missouri, are based on the assessed value of real estate and personal property. The process begins with the County Assessor, who determines the market value of a property. In Missouri, the assessed value is typically a percentage of the market value: 100% for non-owner-occupied property and a lower percentage for owner-occupied residential property.

Once the assessed value is established, the local taxing jurisdictions—including the county, city, school districts, and special districts—set "millage rates." A mill represents one dollar of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. Your total tax bill is the sum of these various millage rates multiplied by your property's assessed value.

Available Exemptions

Missouri offers several tax relief programs to reduce the taxable value of a home. To qualify, homeowners must file the appropriate application with the Mississippi County Assessor's office.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to eligible homeowners to reduce the taxable value of their primary residence.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 or older may qualify for additional tax relief or freezes on assessed value.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with permanent disabilities may be eligible for a reduction in their property tax burden.
• Veteran Exemptions: Specific tax relief is available for disabled veterans or surviving spouses of veterans, depending on the level of disability.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Mississippi County are generally billed annually, though they may be paid in installments if the homeowner chooses or if the taxing entity allows. Payments are typically managed by the County Collector.

• Deadlines: While specific dates vary by tax year, payments are generally due in the fall. It is critical to verify the exact deadline with the Collector's office to avoid penalties.
• Installments: Some taxpayers may opt to pay through an escrow account managed by their mortgage lender.
• Late Consequences: Payments made after the legal deadline are subject to delinquency interest. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to a tax sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued, you have the right to appeal the assessment. This process must be initiated shortly after you receive your Notice of Assessment.

To start an appeal, you must file a formal petition with the Mississippi County Board of Assessment Appeals. You will be required to provide evidence to support your claim, such as a recent independent appraisal or a list of comparable properties in your neighborhood that have sold for less than your assessed value. If the board does not resolve the issue, the appeal may be taken further to the state level.