Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Moody County

Property taxes in Moody County are calculated based on the assessed value of your real estate and the local mill levy. Each year, the County Director of Equalization determines the "full and true" market value of your property. Once this assessment is established, it is multiplied by the state-mandated assessment level to determine the taxable value.

The total tax bill is then derived by applying the local mill levy. A mill represents one dollar of tax for every $1,000 of taxable value. The mill levy is a composite rate determined by the budgetary needs of the county, your specific school district, and any applicable municipal or township taxing entities. Because these entities set their budgets annually, your mill levy may fluctuate, directly impacting your final tax obligation.

Available Exemptions

South Dakota offers several property tax relief programs designed to assist eligible homeowners in reducing their tax burden. These programs are managed at the state level but administered locally:

• Homestead Exemption: Provides a property tax reduction for elderly and disabled persons who meet specific income and residency requirements.
• Senior Citizen/Disabled Persons Tax Freeze: Eligible applicants may freeze the valuation of their home, preventing increases in property tax due to rising assessments.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Veterans who have a permanent total service-connected disability may be eligible for a significant reduction or exemption on their primary residence.
• Paraplegic Exemption: Special provisions are available for homeowners who are paraplegic or have specific mobility-related disabilities.

Residents are encouraged to contact the Moody County Director of Equalization office to verify eligibility criteria and application deadlines for these programs.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Moody County are due in two equal installments. To remain in good standing and avoid penalties, please adhere to the following schedule:

• First Half: Due by April 30th.
• Second Half: Due by October 31st.

If the due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline is extended to the next business day. It is important to note that if the first half is not paid by the April 30th deadline, the entire annual tax amount becomes delinquent. Late payments are subject to interest penalties as prescribed by South Dakota state law, which accrue monthly until the balance is satisfied.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe the assessed value of your property does not accurately reflect its fair market value, you have the right to appeal. The process begins with an informal review by the Moody County Director of Equalization. If you remain dissatisfied, you may formally appeal to the Local Board of Equalization, followed by the County Board of Equalization. All appeals must be filed by the statutory deadlines provided in your assessment notice. It is recommended that you gather evidence, such as recent appraisals or comparable sales data, to support your claim during the hearing process.