Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Haywood County

Property tax in Haywood County, Tennessee, is an ad valorem tax that is calculated based on the assessed value of a property. The assessment process involves estimating the value of a property, usually in the form of a monetary amount, that is used to determine the tax owed. The county assessor's office is responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of property values, which are then used to calculate the tax owed by property owners.

The millage rate, also known as the tax rate, is set by the Haywood County Commission and represents the amount of tax levied per dollar of assessed value. In Tennessee, the property tax rate is typically expressed as the millage rate, which is the number of dollars in taxes per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if the millage rate is 20 mills, the tax owed on a property with an assessed value of $100,000 would be $2,000.

It's essential to note that the assessed value of a property is usually lower than its market value, and the tax owed is based on the assessed value rather than the market value.

Available Exemptions

• Homestead Exemption: Eligible homeowners can claim a homestead exemption, which can reduce their property tax liability by up to $2,000. To qualify, the property must be the owner's primary residence, and the owner must be at least 65 years old or disabled.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Tennessee offers a senior citizen exemption for property owners who are 65 years old or older. This exemption excludes up to $45,000 of the property's appraised value from taxation.
• Disability Exemption: If a homeowner is permanently and totally disabled, they may be eligible for a disability exemption. This exemption excludes up to $45,000 of the property's appraised value from taxation.
• Veteran Exemption: Tennessee offers a veteran exemption for property owners who are 100% disabled veterans or surviving spouses of 100% disabled veterans. This exemption excludes up to $45,000 of the property's appraised value from taxation.

It's essential to note that these exemptions are subject to change, and property owners should contact the Haywood County Assessor's office for specific information and to confirm eligibility.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

The Haywood County Treasurer's office is responsible for collecting property taxes, and payment deadlines are usually in July and December. Property owners can pay their taxes in full or split them into installments, but late payments may incur penalties and interest.

Paper or electronic payment options are available, and property owners can pay their taxes online, by mail, or in person. A payment coupon or stub is provided with the tax bill, and property owners should use this to identify their payment.

• First Installment: July 1st
• Second Installment: December 1st
• Penalties and Interest: A penalty of 1.5% and interest at a rate determined by the state will be applied to late payments.

Appealing Your Assessment

Property owners who disagree with their assessment can appeal to the Haywood County Board of Equalization. The appeal process typically involves filing a written appeal with the county assessor's office and providing supporting documentation, such as an appraisal or comparable sales data.

The Board of Equalization will review the appeal and make a decision based on the property's appraised value and comparable sales data. Property owners can also choose to appeal to the Tennessee Board of Equalization or the Chancery Court, but this is typically a last resort.

It's essential to note that property owners should appeal their assessment in writing and provide supporting documentation to support their claim. The appeal process can be complex, and it's recommended that property owners seek professional assistance if necessary.