Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Fauquier County

In Fauquier County, property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your property and the applicable tax rate (millage rate). The county assesses real estate every two years, with assessments reflecting fair market value as of January 1 of the assessment year. The current assessment cycle runs from 2023 to 2024. The millage rate is set annually by the Board of Supervisors and is applied per $100 of assessed value. For example, if your home is assessed at $400,000 and the tax rate is $0.85 per $100, your annual tax would be $3,400.

• Assessment Process: Conducted biennially by the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office, with notices mailed to property owners.
• Millage Rate: Composed of county, school, and fire levy rates. The total rate varies by district.
• Tax Calculation: (Assessed Value ÷ 100) × Millage Rate = Annual Tax.

Available Exemptions

Virginia and Fauquier County offer several exemptions to reduce property tax burdens for eligible residents:

• Homestead Exemption: Not available statewide, but some localities offer relief for primary residences. Check with the Commissioner of the Revenue for local programs.
• Senior Citizen/Disabled Exemption: Residents aged 65+ or permanently disabled may qualify for tax relief if income and net worth limits are met. Applications are due annually by May 1.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may receive partial or full exemptions based on disability rating. Surviving spouses of service members killed in action may also qualify.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Fauquier County property taxes are billed annually, with payments due in two installments:

• First Half: Due by June 5.
• Second Half: Due by December 5.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Treasurer’s Office. Late payments incur a 10% penalty plus interest (10% annually). Delinquent taxes may result in a lien or auction of the property.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• Step 1: Contact the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office within 30 days of your assessment notice to request an informal review.
• Step 2: If unresolved, file a formal appeal with the Fauquier County Board of Equalization by June 30 (for assessments issued in odd-numbered years).
• Step 3: Further appeals can be made to the Virginia Circuit Court within three years of the assessment date.

Provide supporting evidence, such as recent comparable sales or an independent appraisal, to strengthen your case. Deadlines are strict, so act promptly.