Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Addison County

Property taxes in Addison County, Vermont, are based on the assessed value of your property and the local millage (tax) rate. Here’s how the process works:

• Assessment: Properties are assessed annually at fair market value by the Addison County Assessor’s Office. Vermont law requires assessments to reflect 100% of fair market value.
• Mill Rate: Tax rates are set by local governments (towns, schools, and the county) and expressed in mills (1 mill = $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). For example, a home valued at $300,000 with a mill rate of 1.5 would owe $450 in taxes.
• Tax Calculation: Multiply your assessed value by the combined mill rates of all taxing jurisdictions (town, county, school district).

Available Exemptions

Vermont offers several property tax exemptions to eligible residents. Key programs include:

• Homestead Declaration: Primary homeowners may qualify for a reduced education tax rate. File a homestead declaration with your town by April 15.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65+ with household income below $128,500 (2024) may qualify for a reduction in assessed value (up to $10,000).
• Disability Exemption: Homeowners with permanent disabilities may receive a similar reduction to the senior exemption.
• Veteran Exemptions: Veterans with service-connected disabilities or wartime service may qualify for reductions ranging from $5,000 to $40,000 in assessed value.

Applications for exemptions must be submitted to your town clerk’s office by the annual deadline (typically April 15).

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Addison County property taxes are billed and paid annually, with the following key dates:

• Billing: Tax bills are mailed in July or August, with payments due in two installments.
• Payment Deadlines: First installment is due by September 15; the second is due by March 15 of the following year.
• Late Payments: A 1% monthly penalty (up to 8% maximum) is applied to overdue balances. Delinquent accounts may face tax lien proceedings after one year.

Some towns may offer alternative payment plans—contact your local treasurer for details.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property is overassessed, follow these steps to appeal:

• Informal Review: Contact the Addison County Assessor’s Office to discuss your valuation. Errors (e.g., incorrect square footage) may be corrected without a formal appeal.
• Formal Appeal: File a written grievance with your town’s Board of Civil Authority (BCA) by the deadline (usually within 14 days of the town’s grievance meeting, held in spring).
• Evidence: Provide supporting documentation, such as recent appraisals or comparable property assessments.
• Further Appeals: If unsatisfied with the BCA’s decision, you may appeal to the Vermont Superior Court or the State Appraiser within 30 days.

Deadlines vary by town; check with your local clerk for specific dates.