Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Luna County

In Luna County, property taxes are determined by the interaction between the assessed value of your property and the local tax rate, known as the millage rate. The Luna County Assessor’s Office is responsible for identifying, listing, and valuing all taxable property within the county. Your property’s taxable value is typically 33.33% of its appraised market value. Once this value is established, it is multiplied by the specific mill levy for your district, which includes funding for schools, county government, and municipal services. It is important to note that New Mexico law limits the annual increase in the taxable value of residential property to 3% unless significant improvements are made or the property is sold.

Available Exemptions

New Mexico offers several exemptions designed to reduce the tax burden for specific groups of homeowners. These must be applied for through the County Assessor’s office:

• Head of Household Exemption: A $2,000 reduction in the taxable value of your primary residence.
• Veterans’ Exemption: Qualified honorably discharged veterans or their surviving spouses may receive a reduction in taxable value. A $4,000 exemption is available for wartime veterans, while those with a 100% service-connected disability may qualify for a full exemption of property taxes on their primary residence.
• Senior Citizen or Disabled Person Valuation Freeze: Homeowners aged 65 or older, or those who are permanently disabled, may be eligible to freeze the valuation of their primary residence, provided they meet specific income requirements.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Luna County are billed annually and are payable in two equal installments. The first half is due on November 10th and becomes delinquent if not paid by December 10th. The second half is due on April 10th and becomes delinquent if not paid by May 10th. If the full year’s tax is paid by December 10th, the entire amount is considered current. Failure to pay by these deadlines results in the accrual of interest and penalties, which continue to compound monthly. Persistent delinquency can eventually lead to the placement of a tax lien on the property and potential sale at a public auction.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the valuation of your property is inaccurate or inequitable, you have the right to file a formal protest with the Luna County Assessor. You must submit your written protest within 30 days of the date on your Notice of Value. When filing, provide documentation to support your claim, such as recent appraisals, photographs of property damage, or sales data for comparable homes in your neighborhood. After the protest is filed, you will be notified of a scheduled hearing with the County Valuation Protests Board, where you can present your evidence to seek an adjustment.