How Property Tax Works in Loudoun County

Real estate property tax is a primary source of revenue for Loudoun County, funding essential services like schools, public safety, and infrastructure. Your property tax bill is calculated based on two main components: your property's assessed value and the county's real estate tax rate (often called the millage rate).

• Assessment Process: The Loudoun County Commissioner of the Revenue annually assesses all real property at 100% of its fair market value as of January 1st of each year. This assessment reflects what the property would likely sell for on the open market.
• Real Estate Tax Rate: The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors sets the real estate tax rate annually, typically in April or May, as part of the county budget process. This rate is usually expressed per $100 of assessed value (e.g., $1.00 per $100).
• Calculation: To determine your annual real estate tax, the assessed value of your property is divided by 100 and then multiplied by the current tax rate. For example, if your home is assessed at $500,000 and the tax rate is $1.05 per $100, your annual tax would be ($500,000 / 100) * $1.05 = $5,250.

Available Exemptions

Loudoun County offers several programs that can provide relief from real estate taxes for qualifying residents, authorized by state law:

• Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief: This program provides tax relief based on the homeowner's age (65 or older) or permanent and total disability status, along with income and net worth limitations. The amount of relief varies based on specific criteria set annually by the Board of Supervisors.
• 100% Service-Connected Disabled Veteran Exemption: Virginia law provides a full real estate tax exemption for the primary residence of veterans who have a 100% service-connected, permanent, and total disability, or their surviving spouses who meet specific conditions.
• Surviving Spouse of a Service Member Killed in Action: The surviving spouse of any service member killed in action is eligible for an exemption from real property taxes on their principal dwelling, provided they do not remarry.

Specific eligibility requirements, income/net worth thresholds, and application deadlines apply to each program. Homeowners should contact the Commissioner of the Revenue's office for detailed information and application procedures.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Loudoun County real estate taxes are typically due in two installments each year:

• First Installment: Due on or before June 5th.
• Second Installment: Due on or before December 5th.

It's important to note that if a due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline is typically extended to the next business day. Failure to pay your property taxes by the due date will result in penalties and interest charges. Penalties are usually assessed at a percentage of the unpaid tax, and interest accrues monthly on the unpaid balance, including penalties. Continued non-payment can lead to further collection actions, including liens on the property and potential sale.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property's assessed value is higher than its fair market value, you have the right to appeal the assessment. The appeals process in Loudoun County typically involves these steps:

• Informal Review: Your first step should be to contact the Loudoun County Commissioner of the Revenue's office to discuss your assessment. You can provide evidence such as recent appraisals, sales data for comparable properties in your neighborhood, or documentation of property defects affecting value.
• Formal Appeal to the Board of Equalization (BOE): If an informal review does not resolve your concerns, you can file a formal appeal with the Loudoun County Board of Equalization. The BOE is an independent body appointed to hear property assessment disputes. You will need to submit a written application by a specified deadline, typically in April or May.
• BOE Hearing: The BOE will schedule a hearing where you can present your case and evidence. The Commissioner of the Revenue's office will also present its assessment methodology and supporting data. The BOE will then make a decision to affirm, decrease, or increase the assessment.
• Circuit Court Appeal: If you are not satisfied with the BOE's decision, you have the option to appeal their ruling to the Loudoun County Circuit Court.

It is crucial to understand and adhere to all deadlines for submitting appeals and providing documentation.