Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Putnam County

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

• Assessment: The Putnam County Assessor's Office determines the assessed value of your property, which is typically 60% of its appraised market value.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are set by local taxing authorities (county, school district, etc.) and applied per $100 of assessed value. For example, if the combined millage rate is 30 mills, you would owe $30 for every $1,000 of assessed value.
• Calculation: Multiply your assessed value by the total millage rate (divided by 1,000) to estimate your annual tax liability.

Available Exemptions

West Virginia offers several property tax exemptions that may reduce your tax burden:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to residents aged 65 or older or permanently disabled, this exemption reduces the assessed value by $20,000.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Qualifying seniors may receive additional reductions based on income limits.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may qualify for exemptions based on their disability rating, with 100% disabled veterans often eligible for full exemption.
• Disability Exemption: Permanently disabled residents may apply for exemptions similar to the Homestead Exemption.

Applications for exemptions must be filed with the Putnam County Assessor's Office by December 1.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Putnam County property taxes are due annually, with specific deadlines and payment options:

• Due Date: Taxes are typically due by October 1, with a grace period extending to November 1.
• Installment Plan: Eligible taxpayers may pay in two installments (due October 1 and April 1 of the following year).
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes accrue interest at 1% per month and may result in a lien or eventual tax sale.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Putnam County Sheriff's Office.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property is overassessed, you can appeal the valuation:

• Step 1: File a formal appeal with the Putnam County Assessor's Office by February 20 (for assessments received in January).
• Step 2: Present evidence (e.g., recent sales of comparable properties, appraisal reports) to support your claim.
• Step 3: If dissatisfied with the outcome, you may appeal to the West Virginia State Tax Commissioner or county circuit court.

Consult the Putnam County Assessor's Office for specific deadlines and required documentation.