Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Wood County

In Wood County, West Virginia, property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your property and the applicable millage rates. The process involves the following steps:

• Assessment: The Wood County Assessor's Office determines the market value of your property, which is then assessed at 60% of that value for tax purposes.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are set in "mills," where 1 mill equals $1 per $1,000 of assessed value. Rates vary by district (county, school, municipal) and are applied to your assessed value.
• Calculation: Multiply your assessed value by the total millage rate to estimate your annual tax bill. For example, a home assessed at $100,000 with a 30-mill rate would owe $3,000 annually.

Available Exemptions

West Virginia offers several property tax exemptions to eligible residents:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value of a primary residence by $20,000 for homeowners aged 65+ or permanently disabled. Apply through the Wood County Assessor.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Additional relief for low-income seniors, potentially freezing tax rates.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may qualify for reduced assessments based on disability rating.
• Disability Exemption: Permanently disabled residents can apply for similar reductions as seniors.

Documentation (e.g., proof of age, disability status) is required for all exemptions.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Wood County property taxes follow a strict schedule:

• Billing: Tax bills are mailed by July 15 each year.
• Deadlines: Payments are due in two installments: September 1 (first half) and March 1 (second half). Late payments incur penalties.
• Late Penalties: A 1% monthly interest charge applies to overdue amounts, with potential liens or foreclosure for prolonged non-payment.
• Payment Methods: Pay online, by mail, or in person at the Wood County Sheriff's Office (the designated tax collector).

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property is overassessed, follow these steps to appeal:

• Review Notice: Check your assessment notice (sent by February 28) for accuracy.
• File an Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the Wood County Assessor by March 15. Include evidence (e.g., recent sales of comparable properties, appraisal reports).
• Hearing: The County Commission will review your case and issue a decision. Further appeals can be made to the West Virginia State Tax Commissioner.

Act promptly—deadlines are strict, and missing them forfeits your appeal rights for the year.