Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Brown County

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

• Assessment: The Brown County Assessor’s Office evaluates your property’s market value annually. This assessed value is used to determine your tax liability.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates (mill rates) are applied per $1,000 of assessed value. These rates are set by school districts, municipalities, and the county. For example, if your home is assessed at $200,000 and the combined mill rate is 20, your annual tax would be $4,000.
• Tax Calculation: Taxes owed = (Assessed Value × Mill Rate) / 1,000. Adjustments may apply for exemptions or credits.

Available Exemptions

Brown County offers several property tax exemptions to eligible residents. Key exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value for primary residences. Homeowners must occupy the property as of January 1 of the tax year.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Available to residents aged 65+ with income below state thresholds. Reduces property tax liability.
• Disability Exemption: For individuals with qualifying disabilities, offering partial tax relief.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for exemptions based on disability rating. Unremarried surviving spouses of veterans may also be eligible.

Applications for exemptions must be filed with the Brown County Treasurer’s Office by the annual deadline (typically early January).

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Brown County property taxes are due annually, with options for installment payments:

• Full Payment Deadline: January 31. Payments postmarked after this date incur penalties.
• Installment Plan: Taxes may be paid in two installments (January 31 and July 31). The first payment must be at least 50% of the total tax due.
• Late Payments: A 1.5% monthly penalty (up to 18% annually) applies to overdue balances. Delinquent taxes may result in a tax lien or foreclosure.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Treasurer’s Office.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, follow these steps to appeal:

• Review Your Assessment: Check your assessment notice (mailed in spring) for errors in property details or valuation.
• File an Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the Brown County Board of Review by the deadline (typically in May). Include evidence (e.g., recent comparable sales, appraisal reports).
• Hearing: Attend the scheduled hearing to present your case. The Board will issue a decision, which can be further appealed to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue if necessary.

Deadlines and forms are available on the Brown County Assessor’s website. Acting promptly is critical, as appeals are time-sensitive.