Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Burnett County

Property taxes in Burnett County are based on the assessed value of your property and the combined millage (tax) rates set by local governments, including the county, school districts, and municipalities. Here’s how the process works:

• Assessment: The Burnett County Assessor’s Office evaluates your property’s market value annually. Assessments aim to reflect fair market value as of January 1 each year.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are calculated per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if your home is valued at $200,000 and the combined mill rate is 15, your annual tax would be $3,000 (200 × 15). Rates vary by location due to differing levies from schools, towns, and other entities.
• Tax Bills: Bills are mailed in December and payable the following year. Taxes fund local services like roads, schools, and emergency services.

Available Exemptions

Wisconsin offers several property tax exemptions that may reduce your bill in Burnett County:

• Homestead Credit: For low-income homeowners, this state credit offsets property taxes or rent. Eligibility is based on income and household size.
• Senior Citizen/Disability Exemptions: Residents aged 65+ or with disabilities may qualify for additional relief, such as the School Property Tax Credit, which caps tax increases for eligible seniors.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may qualify for exemptions up to $4,000 (or more for 100% disability). Unremarried spouses of deceased veterans may also be eligible.

Apply for exemptions through the Burnett County Treasurer or Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR). Deadlines and forms vary.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Burnett County property taxes are due annually, with flexible payment options:

• Full Payment: Due by January 31. Late payments incur a 1.5% monthly penalty (up to 18% annually).
• Installments: Pay in two installments—50% by January 31 and the remainder by July 31—without penalty. Missed installments default to the full annual amount.
• Consequences: Unpaid taxes after two years may result in a tax lien or foreclosure. Contact the Treasurer’s Office immediately if you anticipate delays.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your assessment is inaccurate, follow these steps:

• Review Your Notice: Assessment notices are mailed in spring. Compare your valuation to similar properties using the Burnett County Assessor’s online database.
• File an Appeal: Submit a written objection to the Board of Review (BOR) by the deadline (typically May or June; confirm dates annually). Include evidence like recent appraisals or sales data.
• Hearing: Present your case to the BOR, which may adjust your assessment. If unsatisfied, appeal further to the Wisconsin DOR or circuit court.

For deadlines and forms, visit the Burnett County Clerk or Assessor’s Office website.