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Updated 2025 Tax Year

Lamar County
Property Tax Guide

Everything you need to know about property taxes in Lamar County, AL. Rates, due dates, exemptions, and how it affects your monthly payment.

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
Varies by district: 0.5-0.8% effective rate (county + school + special districts combined)
1st Due
Oct 1
Exemptions
4+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Lamar County, Alabama operates under a property tax system that funds essential local services including schools, roads, public safety, and county operations. Property taxes are assessed based on the fair market value of real estate and personal property, with Alabama's statewide assessment ratio typically around 10% for residential properties and 20% for commercial properties.

The effective property tax rate in Lamar County varies by location within the county due to different combinations of taxing districts, including the county general fund, school districts, and various special assessment districts. Property owners should note that their exact tax rate depends on which special taxing districts their property falls within, making it important to verify the specific rate applicable to your property location.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

Based on available 2024-2025 levy year information:

ComponentRateDescription
County GeneralVariesBasic county services and operations
School DistrictVariesLocal school funding
Special DistrictsVariesMunicipal services, fire protection, etc.
Total Effective Rate~1.0%Approximate range of assessed value

Note: Exact rates for the 2025-2026 levy year are not yet published. Rates vary significantly by location within Lamar County based on applicable special taxing districts. Contact the Lamar County Revenue Commissioner for your property's specific tax rate calculation.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Lamar County, property taxes are due in two installments:

First Installment
Oct 1
Delinquent after Dec 10
Pro tip: If you pay through mortgage escrow, your lender splits these payments across your monthly mortgage. If you pay directly, set calendar reminders to avoid late penalties.
Section 4

Supplemental Tax Bills

Supplemental taxes in Lamar County are triggered by changes in property ownership, new construction, or improvements that increase a property's assessed value during the tax year. These taxes are calculated based on the difference between the old and new assessed values, prorated for the remaining months in the tax year.

For example, if you purchase a home in March that was previously assessed at $150,000 but now has a market value of $200,000, you would receive a supplemental tax bill for the increased assessment covering April through September (the remaining months before the next regular assessment period). The supplemental amount would be calculated on the difference in assessed value multiplied by your applicable tax rate.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Market Value: $300,000
  • Assessed Value (10%): $30,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if applicable): Variable
  • Net Taxable Value: ~$30,000
  • Annual Tax (1.0% rate): ~$300
  • Monthly Escrow: ~$25

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Market Value: $600,000
  • Assessed Value (10%): $60,000
  • Less: Applicable Credits: Variable
  • Net Taxable Value: ~$60,000
  • Annual Tax (1.0% rate): ~$600
  • Monthly Escrow: ~$50

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Market Value: $1,000,000
  • Assessed Value (10%): $100,000
  • Less: Applicable Credits: Variable
  • Net Taxable Value: ~$100,000
  • Annual Tax (1.0% rate): ~$1,000
  • Monthly Escrow: ~$83

All credits require separate applications and are not automatically applied. Contact the Lamar County Revenue Commissioner for specific credit eligibility and amounts.

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Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders in Lamar County require property tax escrow accounts, where monthly payments are collected along with your mortgage payment and held until taxes are due. Lenders typically collect 1/12 of your estimated annual tax bill each month, plus a cushion of 1-2 months.

Property taxes in Lamar County are due October 1st and become delinquent after December 31st. Lenders usually pay taxes in early October to avoid any late penalties. Property owners should verify that their lender has made timely payment and review their annual escrow analysis to ensure adequate funds are being collected for the following year's tax obligations.

How HonestCasa Helps
  • Understand whether your escrow is set correctly
  • See how rising taxes will change your monthly payment
  • Plan ahead instead of being surprised by "shortage" letters
Section 6

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When are property taxes due in Lamar County for the 2025-2026 tax year? A: Property taxes are due October 1, 2026, and become delinquent after December 31, 2026.

Q: What homestead tax credits are available and do I need to apply? A: Alabama offers homestead exemptions that must be claimed in writing with the Lamar County Revenue Commissioner between October 1st and December 31st. These are not automatic and require annual application.

Q: How does the homestead credit work? A: The homestead credit typically limits assessment increases rather than reducing market value. It caps the annual growth in your home's assessed value, providing tax stability for longtime residents. You must apply to receive this benefit.

Q: How often are properties reassessed? A: Alabama requires property reappraisal every four years, though market changes may trigger interim adjustments.

Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late? A: Taxes become delinquent after December 31st, incurring interest and penalties. Extended delinquency can result in tax lien sales.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Check with the Lamar County Revenue Commissioner's office for current online payment options and accepted methods.

Q: How do I appeal my property assessment? A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Lamar County Board of Equalization within specific timeframes after receiving your assessment notice.

Q: Why do neighboring properties have different tax rates? A: Tax rates vary based on special taxing districts, school districts, and municipal boundaries that may differ even within the same neighborhood.

Q: What personal property is subject to taxation? A: Business equipment, vehicles, boats, and other personal property may be subject to annual assessment and taxation.

Q: Where do I apply for tax credits or exemptions? A: All applications should be submitted to the Lamar County Revenue Commissioner's office with required documentation and within specified deadlines.

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