Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Oconto County

In Oconto County, 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 Oconto County Assessor's Office evaluates properties annually to determine their fair market value. Assessments are typically conducted as of January 1 each year.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates (mill rates) are set by local taxing authorities, including the county, school districts, and municipalities. One mill equals $1 of tax per $1,000 of assessed value.
• Tax Calculation: Your property tax bill is calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the combined mill rates of all applicable jurisdictions.

Tax bills are mailed in December and are due by January 31 of the following year.

Available Exemptions

Wisconsin offers several property tax exemptions that may reduce your tax burden:

• Homestead Credit: Available to low-income homeowners, this credit reduces property taxes based on income and household size.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65+ may qualify for additional deductions if they meet income requirements.
• Disability Exemption: Homeowners with disabilities may be eligible for reduced assessments or credits.
• Veteran Exemptions: Veterans with service-connected disabilities or their surviving spouses may qualify for property tax relief.

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

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Oconto County property taxes follow a strict payment schedule:

• Full Payment Deadline: Taxes are due in full by January 31. Payments made after this date incur a 1.5% monthly penalty.
• Installment Option: Qualified taxpayers may pay in two installments—half by January 31 and the remaining half by July 31—but must apply in advance.
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes may result in a tax lien or eventual foreclosure if unpaid for multiple years.

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

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• Informal Review: Contact the Oconto County Assessor’s Office to discuss discrepancies before filing a formal appeal.
• Formal Appeal: File a written objection with the Board of Review by the deadline (typically in May). Provide evidence such as recent sales of comparable properties.
• Further Appeals: If unsatisfied with the Board’s decision, you may appeal to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue or circuit court.

Deadlines and required forms are available on the Oconto County website.