Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Snohomish County

Property taxes in Snohomish County are calculated based on the assessed value of your property and the combined millage (tax) rates set by local taxing districts. Here’s how the process works:

• Assessment: The Snohomish County Assessor’s Office evaluates your property’s market value annually, considering factors like location, size, and recent sales of comparable properties.
• Taxable Value: Washington State limits annual increases in assessed value to 1% or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower, unless significant changes (e.g., renovations) occur.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are expressed in "mills" (1 mill = $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). Rates vary by district (e.g., city, school, fire) and are combined to determine your total property tax bill.

Available Exemptions

Snohomish County offers several exemptions to reduce property tax burdens for eligible residents:

• Senior Citizen/Disabled Exemption: Low-income seniors (61+) or disabled individuals may qualify for partial exemptions or deferrals based on income thresholds.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability or their surviving spouses may receive full or partial exemptions.
• Homestead Exemption: While Washington doesn’t offer a traditional homestead exemption, the state’s 1% levy limit effectively caps annual increases for primary residences.

Applications for exemptions must be submitted to the Snohomish County Assessor’s Office with supporting documentation.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Snohomish County property taxes are due in two installments:

• First Half: Due by April 30 (or next business day if weekends/holidays apply).
• Second Half: Due by October 31.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person. Late payments incur penalties:

• 1% interest for payments up to 30 days late.
• Additional penalties (up to 12% annually) for prolonged delinquency, potentially leading to a tax lien or foreclosure.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you can appeal to the Snohomish County Board of Equalization (BOE):

• Deadline: Appeals must be filed within 60 days of the assessment notice (typically mailed in July).
• Process: Submit evidence (e.g., recent appraisals, comparable sales) to support your claim. The BOE may adjust the value if justified.
• Further Appeals: If dissatisfied with the BOE’s decision, you may appeal to the Washington State Board of Tax Appeals.

For assistance, contact the Snohomish County Assessor’s Office or consult a property tax professional.