Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in St. Croix County

Property taxes in St. Croix 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 St. Croix County Assessor’s Office evaluates properties annually to determine their fair market value. Assessments are typically based on recent sales of comparable properties, improvements, and market trends.
• Millage Rates: Tax rates are expressed in mills (1 mill = $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). Rates are set by the county, school districts, municipalities, and technical colleges. Your total tax bill is the sum of these levies applied to your assessed value.
• Tax Calculation: Multiply your property’s assessed value by the total mill rate, then divide by 1,000. For example, a $200,000 home with a 20-mill rate would owe $4,000 annually.

Available Exemptions

Wisconsin offers several property tax exemptions that may reduce your bill. Key exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to Wisconsin residents who own and occupy their primary home as of January 1. This exemption may lower the taxable value of your property.
• Senior Citizen/Disability Exemption: Qualifying seniors (65+) or disabled individuals may be eligible for additional reductions based on income limits. Documentation (e.g., proof of age or disability status) is required.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans with service-connected disabilities or their surviving spouses may qualify for exemptions. Unremarried spouses of veterans who died in service may also be eligible.

Apply for exemptions through the St. Croix County Treasurer’s Office by the deadline (typically January 31).

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

St. Croix County property taxes are due annually, with options for installment payments:

• Full Payment Deadline: Taxes are due in full by January 31. Payments made after this date incur a 1.5% monthly penalty.
• Installment Plan: Taxpayers may pay in two installments—50% by January 31 and the remaining 50% by July 31. Late installment payments face penalties.
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes accrue interest and may result in a tax lien or foreclosure if unpaid for an extended period.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the County 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) or search records online via the St. Croix County Assessor’s Office.
• File an Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the Board of Review by the deadline (usually May or June; confirm dates annually). Include evidence such as recent sales data or an independent appraisal.
• Hearing: Present your case at the Board of Review hearing. The board may adjust your assessment if justified.

For complex cases, consider consulting a property tax professional. Note: Appeals do not defer tax payment deadlines.