Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Kittitas County

Property taxes in Kittitas County are calculated based on the assessed value of your property and the millage rate applied by local taxing authorities. The Kittitas County Assessor's Office determines the assessed value of your property annually, reflecting its market value as of January 1. This value is then multiplied by the millage rate (tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value) set by various entities, such as school districts, cities, and county governments. The total tax rate is the sum of these individual rates. Property tax bills are typically mailed in February and are due in two installments: April 30 and October 31.

Available Exemptions

Kittitas County offers several property tax exemptions to eligible residents:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $60,000 for qualifying homeowners.
• Senior Citizen & Disabled Persons Exemption: Provides a reduction in property taxes for homeowners aged 61 or older or disabled, with income thresholds applied.
• Veterans Exemption: Offers tax relief for veterans with a service-connected disability or their surviving spouses.
• Other Exemptions: Includes exemptions for properties used for charitable, religious, or agricultural purposes.

Applications for exemptions must be submitted to the Kittitas County Assessor's Office by the specified deadlines.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax payments in Kittitas County are due in two installments:

• First Half: Due by April 30.
• Second Half: Due by October 31.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Kittitas County Treasurer's Office. If you miss a deadline, late payments incur interest and penalties. For those facing financial hardship, installment payment plans may be available upon request. Failure to pay property taxes can result in a tax lien or foreclosure.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overassessed, you can appeal the valuation to the Kittitas County Board of Equalization. The appeal process involves:

• Filing a Appeal: Submit a written appeal within 30 days of the date on your assessment notice.
• Providing Evidence: Include supporting documentation, such as recent appraisals or comparable property values.
• Attending a Hearing: Present your case to the Board of Equalization, which will review the evidence and make a decision.

If unsatisfied with the Board's decision, you may further appeal to the Washington State Board of Tax Appeals or Superior Court.