Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Forest County

In Forest County, property taxes are determined by a combination of your property’s assessed value and the local millage rates. The assessment process involves calculating the "assessed value" of your real estate, which is a percentage of the property's fair market value as determined by the county. Once this value is established, it is multiplied by the millage rate—the tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value—to determine your annual tax liability.

Tax bills in Forest County typically include levies from three distinct taxing authorities: the County government, your local municipality (borough or township), and the local school district. Because each of these entities sets its own millage rate annually based on budget requirements, your total property tax bill represents the sum of these three independent rates.

Available Exemptions

Pennsylvania offers several programs designed to provide property tax relief to eligible homeowners. While some are statewide mandates, others are administered locally. Key exemptions include:

• Homestead/Farmstead Exclusion: This provides a reduction in the assessed value of your primary residence, which directly lowers the school district portion of your tax bill.
• Senior Citizen Tax Relief: Eligible low-income seniors (age 65+) may qualify for rebates on property taxes or rent paid through the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans with a 100% service-connected disability, or those who are blind or paralyzed due to military service, may qualify for a full exemption from real estate taxes.
• Disability Exemptions: Certain local taxing districts may offer additional relief for residents with permanent disabilities; please contact the Forest County Assessment Office for specific local eligibility requirements.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills are generally mailed in the early part of the year. To ensure compliance, homeowners should note the following schedule:

• Discount Period: Most jurisdictions offer a 2% discount if taxes are paid in full within the first 60 days of the bill issuance.
• Face Period: Payments made after the discount period but before the deadline are due at the "face" or base amount.
• Penalty Period: Payments received after the deadline are considered delinquent and are subject to a penalty, typically 10% of the base tax amount.

Failure to pay property taxes may result in a lien being placed against your property. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to a tax claim sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate or exceeds its fair market value, you have the right to file an appeal. The process begins by filing a formal appeal application with the Forest County Assessment Office. You will be required to provide evidence, such as recent appraisals or sales data of comparable properties in your area. Following your submission, a hearing will be scheduled before the Board of Assessment Appeals, where you can present your case for an adjustment.