Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Yellowstone County

Property taxes in Yellowstone County are determined by a combination of the property's assessed value and the local millage rates. The assessment process begins with the County Assessor determining the market value of the property. In Montana, this is typically based on the "fair market value," which is the price the property would sell for in an open market.

Once the value is established, the tax amount is calculated using millage rates. A "mill" represents one-tenth of one percent (0.001) of the property's taxable value. These rates are set annually by various taxing jurisdictions, including the county, city, school districts, and special taxing districts. To calculate your tax, the taxable value is multiplied by the total millage rate and divided by 1,000.

Available Exemptions

Montana offers several programs to reduce the tax burden on eligible homeowners. These exemptions typically lower the taxable value of the property:

• Homeowner’s Exemption: Available to residents who use the property as their primary residence.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Additional tax relief may be available for homeowners aged 65 or older who meet specific income requirements.
• Disabled Veteran/Citizen Exemptions: Significant tax reductions or exemptions are available for veterans with service-connected disabilities and citizens with qualifying permanent disabilities.
• Agricultural Use: Land used for primary agricultural production may be valued based on its productivity rather than its market value.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Yellowstone County are typically billed annually, though the timing can vary based on the specific taxing district. Most tax bills are mailed in the fall, with a primary deadline for payment usually falling in June of the following year.

Homeowners should be aware of the following:

• Installments: While most pay annually, some taxpayers may arrange payment through their mortgage escrow accounts.
• Late Penalties: Payments made after the statutory deadline are subject to interest penalties and late fees.
• Tax Sales: Properties with delinquent taxes for multiple years may be subject to a tax sale to recover unpaid funds.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued by the Yellowstone County Assessor, you have the right to appeal. The process generally begins with an informal review with the Assessor's office to ensure no clerical errors were made.

If the issue is not resolved informally, you may file a formal appeal with the Montana Department of Revenue. This requires submitting a written request for review within a specific timeframe following the receipt of your valuation notice. You will be asked to provide evidence, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales of similar properties in your neighborhood, to support your claim for a lower valuation.