Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Lawrence County

Property tax in Lawrence County, SOUTH DAKOTA, is a complex process that involves assessment, millage rates, and payment deadlines. Here's a simplified explanation:

• Assessment Process: The county's assessor's office conducts an annual assessment of all properties within the county to determine their market value. This value is then multiplied by the county's millage rate to determine the property tax owed.
• Millage Rates: The millage rate is set by the county commissioners and is typically expressed in mills (1 mill = $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). The total millage rate is the sum of the rates set by the county, school district, and other taxing authorities.
• Tax Calculation: To calculate the property tax owed, multiply the assessed value of the property by the total millage rate. For example, if the assessed value is $100,000 and the total millage rate is 50 mills, the property tax owed would be $5,000 ($100,000 x 50 mills).

Available Exemptions

SOUTH DAKOTA offers various exemptions to eligible property owners, including:

• Homestead Exemption: Eligible homeowners can claim a homestead exemption, which reduces the taxable value of their primary residence. The exemption amount is $47,000 (2023).
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 or older who have lived in SOUTH DAKOTA for at least 10 years may be eligible for a senior citizen exemption, which reduces the taxable value of their primary residence. The exemption amount is $47,000 (2023).
• Disability Exemption: Residents with a disability may be eligible for a disability exemption, which reduces the taxable value of their primary residence. The exemption amount is $47,000 (2023).
• Veteran Exemption: Eligible military veterans may be eligible for a veteran exemption, which reduces the taxable value of their primary residence. The exemption amount is $47,000 (2023).

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Here are the payment deadlines and installment options for Lawrence County:

• First Installment: Due on or before May 15th of each year.
• Second Installment: Due on or before September 15th of each year.
• Late Payment Consequences: A penalty of 1% per month will be added to the unpaid balance, plus interest at the rate of 1.5% per annum.
• Installment Options: Property owners can choose to pay their property tax in one installment, two installments, or through an escrow account.

Appealing Your Assessment

Property owners who disagree with their assessment can appeal to the county's Board of Equalization. To appeal, follow these steps:

• Submit a Written Application: Property owners must submit a written application to the county assessor's office within 30 days of receiving their assessment notice.
• Provide Evidence: Property owners must provide evidence to support their appeal, such as recent sales data or appraisals.
• Attend a Hearing: The Board of Equalization will schedule a hearing to review the appeal.
• Final Decision: The Board of Equalization will make a final decision on the appeal.