Rate Breakdown

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

Authority	Avg. Rate
County General Fund	0.45%
School District (Avg)	1.20%
City / Local (Avg)	0.35%

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How Property Tax Works in Chittenden County

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

• Assessment Process: Properties are assessed annually at fair market value by the Chittenden County Assessor’s Office. Assessments are based on recent sales data, property characteristics, and market trends.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are set by local governments (towns, schools, and the county) and are applied per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if your home is assessed at $300,000 and the combined mill rate is 2.5, your annual tax would be $7,500 (300 × 2.5).
• Reappraisals: Vermont requires towns to conduct periodic reappraisals to ensure assessments remain fair and accurate.

Available Exemptions

Chittenden County offers several exemptions to reduce taxable property value for eligible residents:

• Homestead Declaration: Primary residences may qualify for a reduction in assessed value. File Form HS-122 with your town clerk.
• Senior Citizen/Disabled Exemption: Income-eligible homeowners aged 65+ or with disabilities may receive a tax credit. Income limits apply.
• Veterans Exemption: Veterans with service-connected disabilities or wartime service may qualify for partial exemptions. Documentation (e.g., DD-214) is required.
• Current Use Program: Land used for forestry or agriculture may be taxed at a lower rate if enrolled in Vermont’s Use Value Appraisal program.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Chittenden County property taxes are typically billed annually, with the following key dates:

• Billing: Tax bills are mailed in July, with payments due in August (1st installment) and February (2nd installment).
• Late Payments: A 1% monthly penalty (up to 8%) is applied to overdue balances. Delinquent accounts may face tax lien proceedings.
• Prepayment: Some towns allow partial prepayments. Contact your local treasurer for details.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your assessment is inaccurate, follow these steps:

• Informal Review: Contact the Chittenden County Assessor’s Office to discuss discrepancies. Errors (e.g., incorrect square footage) may be corrected without a formal appeal.
• Formal Appeal: File a written appeal with your town’s Board of Civil Authority (BCA) within 14 days of the grievance period (typically in spring). Provide evidence (e.g., recent appraisals, comparable sales).
• State Appeal: If unsatisfied with the BCA’s decision, you may appeal to the Vermont Superior Court or the State Appraiser within 30 days.

For personalized estimates, use our Chittenden County Property Tax Estimator tool above, or contact the Assessor’s Office at (802) 863-3405.

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