Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Atlantic County

In Atlantic County, property taxes are determined by two primary factors: the assessed value of your property and the local tax rate, often referred to as the millage rate. Each year, your local municipal tax assessor determines the "fair market value" of your property. This valuation is then multiplied by the local tax rate—which includes components for municipal services, county government operations, and local school district funding—to calculate your annual tax liability.

It is important to note that New Jersey utilizes a "tax levy" system. Municipalities determine the total amount of revenue needed to fund public services and distribute that burden across all taxable properties based on their assessed values. If your property's assessed value changes relative to others in the municipality, your tax burden may shift accordingly, even if the total tax levy remains stable.

Available Exemptions

New Jersey offers several property tax relief programs designed to lower the financial burden for specific groups of homeowners. Eligibility requirements are strictly enforced by the state and local tax offices:

• Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement): This program reimburses eligible senior citizens and disabled persons for property tax increases. You must meet specific income limits and residency requirements.
• Senior Citizen/Disabled Person Deduction: An annual $250 deduction from property taxes for homeowners aged 65 or older or those who are permanently and totally disabled, provided they meet income thresholds.
• Veteran Deductions: Honorably discharged veterans or their surviving spouses may be eligible for an annual $250 deduction. Additionally, 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans may qualify for a full property tax exemption on their primary residence.
• Homestead Benefit/ANCHOR Program: While subject to annual legislative funding, the ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters) program provides direct property tax relief to eligible residents based on their income and primary residence status.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Atlantic County are billed on a quarterly basis. Payments are due on the first day of February, May, August, and November. Municipalities generally provide a grace period, often extending to the 10th of the month, during which payments can be made without penalty.

If a payment is not received by the end of the grace period, interest will be charged from the original due date. Delinquent taxes can accrue interest at a rate of 8% per annum on the first $1,500 of the delinquency and 18% per annum on any amount exceeding $1,500. Persistent failure to pay property taxes may result in the municipality placing a tax lien on the property, which could lead to a tax sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property assessment exceeds its true market value, you have the right to file an appeal. In Atlantic County, appeals must be filed with the Atlantic County Board of Taxation by April 1st of the tax year. For properties reassessed in the current year, the deadline may be extended to May 1st. You must provide credible evidence, such as comparable sales (comps) or a recent appraisal, to demonstrate that your assessment is inequitable or inaccurate.