Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Washington County

In Washington County, Oklahoma, property taxes are determined by the County Assessor’s office through a systematic assessment process. Each year, the Assessor determines the "fair cash value" of real and personal property. Once the taxable value is established, the tax amount is calculated by applying the local millage rate (or tax rate) to the assessed value. A mill is equivalent to $1 of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. These millage rates are set annually based on the budgetary requirements of local entities, including school districts, county government, and municipal services. It is important to note that the assessed value is generally a percentage of the fair cash value, as mandated by the Oklahoma Constitution.

Available Exemptions

Oklahoma offers several property tax exemptions designed to provide relief to specific groups of homeowners. To benefit from these, you must file an application with the Washington County Assessor’s Office.

• Homestead Exemption: Available to any homeowner who occupies the property as their principal residence. This grants a $1,000 exemption from the assessed value.
• Senior Citizen Valuation Freeze: Homeowners aged 65 and older who meet specific household income requirements may qualify to have the taxable fair cash value of their home frozen at the current year’s level.
• 100% Disabled Veteran Exemption: Veterans who have been rated as 100% permanently and totally disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs due to a service-connected disability are eligible for a full exemption of ad valorem taxes on their homestead.
• Head of Household Disability: Similar to the senior freeze, individuals who are totally disabled and meet income limitations may apply for a valuation freeze on their primary residence.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax statements are typically mailed by the Washington County Treasurer in November. Taxes are due by December 31 of the current tax year. Taxpayers have the option to pay the full amount at once or in two equal installments:

• If the first half is paid by December 31, the second half is due by March 31.
• If the first half is not paid by December 31, the entire amount becomes delinquent on January 1.

Failure to pay by the specified deadlines will result in the accrual of interest and penalties. Continued delinquency may eventually lead to the property being sold at a tax resale to satisfy the outstanding debt.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s fair cash value is inaccurate or higher than the market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with an informal meeting with the Washington County Assessor’s office to discuss the assessment. If the issue remains unresolved, you may file a formal written complaint with the County Board of Equalization. It is recommended to provide supporting evidence, such as recent appraisals, sales data of comparable properties, or photos of property conditions, to strengthen your appeal.