Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Franklin County

Property taxes in Franklin County, Nebraska, are determined by a combination of the assessed value of the real estate and the local millage rates. The process begins with the County Assessor, who determines the actual value of a property based on market data and physical characteristics. In Nebraska, the taxable value is typically a percentage of the actual value, as mandated by state law.

The final tax amount is calculated using "mills." One mill represents one-tenth of one percent (0.001) of the property's taxable value. These rates are set annually by various local taxing authorities, including the county board, school districts, and city governments, to fund essential public services such as infrastructure, emergency services, and education.

Available Exemptions

Nebraska offers several programs to reduce the tax burden on eligible homeowners. These exemptions can significantly lower the taxable value of a primary residence:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to owners who occupy their property as their primary residence. This reduces the taxable value of the home and a small portion of the surrounding land.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Additional tax relief may be available for residents aged 65 and older, often providing a further reduction in taxable value.
• Disability Exemptions: Specific tax relief programs exist for individuals with permanent disabilities who meet income and residency requirements.
• Veteran Exemptions: Certain veterans, particularly those with service-connected disabilities, may qualify for property tax credits or exemptions.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Franklin County are typically billed annually, but the state allows for flexible payment options to ease the financial burden. Tax statements are generally mailed out in the spring.

• Payment Deadlines: While specific dates vary by tax year, payments are generally due by the end of the calendar year to avoid interest.
• Installment Options: Homeowners may choose to pay their taxes in a single lump sum or through quarterly installments.
• Late Consequences: Failure to pay by the deadline results in the accrual of interest on the unpaid balance. If taxes remain delinquent for an extended period, the property may be subject to a tax sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued by the County Assessor, you have the right to appeal the assessment. The process generally involves filing a formal application for review with the County Board of Equalization during a specific window of time—usually in the spring.

To build a strong case, homeowners should provide evidence such as recent appraisals, sales data of comparable properties in the neighborhood, or documentation of property damage that may have decreased the home's value. If a resolution is not reached at the county level, the appeal may be escalated to the Nebraska Tax Appeal Board.