Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Preston County

Property taxes in Preston County, West Virginia, are based on the assessed value of your property and the applicable millage rates. Here's how the process works:

• Assessment: The Preston County Assessor's Office determines the market value of your property, which is then assessed at 60% of that value for tax purposes (per West Virginia state law).
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are set by local taxing authorities (county, school district, etc.) and applied per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, a millage rate of 12 mills means $12 in tax per $1,000 of assessed value.
• Calculation: Multiply your assessed value by the total millage rate (divided by 1,000) to estimate your annual tax bill.

Available Exemptions

West Virginia offers several property tax exemptions to qualifying residents. Below are key exemptions available in Preston County:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value of a primary residence by $20,000 for homeowners aged 65 or older or permanently disabled.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Additional relief for low-income seniors, potentially freezing tax rates or offering further reductions.
• Veteran Exemption: Disabled veterans may qualify for exemptions based on disability rating (e.g., 100% disability often results in full exemption).
• Farm Use Exemption: Agricultural properties may qualify for reduced assessments if used primarily for farming.

Applications for exemptions must be filed with the Preston County Assessor's Office.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Preston County property taxes are typically due in two installments:

• First Half: Due by September 1.
• Second Half: Due by March 1 of the following year.

Late payments incur penalties:

• 1% interest per month after the deadline.
• Additional fees or liens may apply for prolonged non-payment.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Preston County Sheriff's Office (the designated tax collector).

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property's assessed value is inaccurate, you can appeal the assessment in Preston County:

• Step 1: File an appeal with the Preston County Assessor's Office within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice.
• Step 2: Provide evidence (e.g., recent appraisals, comparable sales, or photos of property issues) to support your claim.
• Step 3: Attend a hearing with the County Commission (acting as the Board of Equalization and Review) to present your case.
• Step 4: If unsatisfied, you may appeal further to the West Virginia State Tax Commissioner or circuit court.

Deadlines and requirements are strict, so act promptly if disputing your assessment.