Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Manitowoc County

Property taxes in Manitowoc County are 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 Manitowoc County Assessor’s Office evaluates properties annually to determine their fair market value. Assessments are typically based on recent sales of comparable properties.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are expressed in mills (1 mill = $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). Rates vary depending on the municipality, school district, and other local entities like the county and technical college.
• Tax Calculation: Your tax bill is calculated by multiplying the assessed value by the total millage rate. For example, a home valued at $200,000 with a combined rate of 20 mills would owe $4,000 annually.

Available Exemptions

Wisconsin offers several property tax exemptions that may reduce your tax burden. Key exemptions available in Manitowoc County include:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to Wisconsin residents who own and occupy their home as their primary residence. This exemption may reduce the taxable value of your property.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65+ with limited income may qualify for additional reductions. Income thresholds apply.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with qualifying disabilities may be eligible for exemptions or credits, depending on income and disability status.
• Veteran Exemptions: Veterans with service-connected disabilities, as well as surviving spouses of veterans, may qualify for property tax relief. Unremarried surviving spouses of veterans who died in service may also be eligible.

Applications for exemptions must be filed with the Manitowoc County Treasurer’s Office by the specified deadlines.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Manitowoc County property taxes are typically due in two installments:

• First Installment: Due by January 31st. This payment is an estimate, usually 50% of the prior year’s total tax.
• Second Installment: Due by July 31st. The remaining balance is adjusted based on the current year’s assessed value and tax rates.

Late payments incur penalties, including interest at a rate of 1.5% per month. If taxes remain unpaid, the county may initiate a tax lien or foreclosure process. Payment options include mail, online payments, or in-person at the Treasurer’s Office.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is incorrect, you can appeal the assessment in Manitowoc County. Follow these steps:

• Review Your Assessment: Check your assessment notice for accuracy and compare it to similar properties in your area.
• File an Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the Board of Review (BOR) by the deadline, typically within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. Include evidence such as recent appraisals or sales data.
• Attend the Hearing: Present your case to the BOR, which will review the evidence and make a determination.

If unsatisfied with the BOR’s decision, you may escalate your appeal to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue or circuit court. Deadlines and procedures must be followed strictly.