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Updated 2025 Tax Year

Ashley County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
~1.50% effective rate (varies by special taxing districts including school, fire, and municipal improvement districts)
Exemptions
5+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Ashley County, Arkansas operates under the state's property tax system to fund essential local services including public schools, county government operations, road maintenance, and emergency services. Property taxes in Ashley County are assessed annually based on the market value of real estate and personal property, with the county maintaining an effective tax rate of approximately 1.500% for the 2025 levy year.

The actual tax rate you pay varies depending on your specific location within Ashley County due to special taxing districts such as school districts, fire districts, and municipal improvement districts. These additional levies are added to the base county rate, meaning properties in different areas of the county may have different total tax rates. Property owners should verify their specific tax rate with the Ashley County Assessor's Office, as rates can range from the base county rate to higher amounts when special district assessments apply.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRateDescription
County General0.650%County operations, roads, courthouse
School District0.500%Public education funding (varies by district)
County Library0.075%Ashley County Library system
County Road0.200%Road maintenance and improvements
Special Districts0.075%Fire protection, drainage (location dependent)
Total Base Rate1.500%FY 2025-2026 levy year

Note: Additional special assessments may apply based on your property's location within specific improvement districts, municipal boundaries, or special service areas. School district rates vary between districts within Ashley County. Contact the Ashley County Assessor at (870) 853-2020 for your property's exact rate.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

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

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 property taxes in Ashley County are additional tax bills issued when there are changes to property ownership, value, or use during the tax year. Common triggers include new construction completion, property improvements that increase value, changes in property use (such as removing agricultural exemption), or corrections to previous assessments.

The supplemental tax is calculated by applying the current tax rate to the difference between the new assessed value and the previous assessed value, prorated for the portion of the tax year remaining. For example, if you complete a $50,000 home addition in March and the county assesses it in April, you would owe supplemental taxes on that $50,000 increase for the remaining 9 months of the fiscal year. The county typically issues supplemental bills within 60-90 days of discovering the change, with payment due 30 days from the bill date.

Example Calculation

Property Value: $300,000

  • Assessed Value: $300,000 × 20% = $60,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: -$350 (requires application)
  • Net Taxable Value: $59,650
  • Annual Tax: $59,650 × 1.500% = $894.75
  • Monthly Escrow: $74.56

Property Value: $600,000

  • Assessed Value: $600,000 × 20% = $120,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: -$350 (requires application)
  • Net Taxable Value: $119,650
  • Annual Tax: $119,650 × 1.500% = $1,794.75
  • Monthly Escrow: $149.56

Property Value: $1,000,000

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000 × 20% = $200,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: -$350 (requires application)
  • Net Taxable Value: $199,650
  • Annual Tax: $199,650 × 1.500% = $2,994.75
  • Monthly Escrow: $249.56

All tax credits require separate application and approval. Rates shown are base county rates and may be higher in special taxing districts.

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Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders in Ashley County require property tax escrow accounts for borrowers with less than 20% down payment. Your lender collects 1/12 of your estimated annual property tax bill each month along with your mortgage payment, then pays the county directly when taxes are due in October. Lenders typically maintain a cushion of 2-3 months of tax payments in your escrow account to ensure sufficient funds are available.

The county sends tax bills directly to your lender if you have an escrow account, though you should receive a copy for your records. Your lender will provide an annual escrow analysis showing how your tax payments were applied and any adjustments needed for the coming year. If your property taxes increase due to reassessment or rate changes, your monthly escrow payment will be adjusted accordingly. You can verify that your lender has paid your taxes by checking with the Ashley County Collector's Office or viewing payment status online through the county's website.

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 Ashley County property taxes due for FY 2025-2026? A: Property taxes are due October 15, 2025. Payments received after this date incur penalties and interest charges.

Q: What tax credits are available and how do I apply? A: The primary credit is the Homestead Credit providing up to $350 off your tax bill for primary residences. You must apply annually with the County Assessor's Office by filing the appropriate forms. Additional credits may be available for seniors, disabled veterans, and disabled persons - all require separate applications and documentation.

Q: How does the Homestead Credit work? A: The Homestead Credit caps the annual increase in your home's assessed value for tax purposes, protecting you from large tax increases due to rising property values. This is not automatic - you must file an application with supporting documentation proving the property is your primary residence.

Q: When does the county reassess properties? A: Arkansas law requires property reappraisal every three years. Ashley County conducts comprehensive reappraisals on this schedule, with annual adjustments for new construction and improvements.

Q: How can I appeal my property assessment? A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Ashley County Board of Equalization within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. You'll need comparable sales data or a professional appraisal to support your case.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: Late payments incur a 10% penalty plus 1% interest per month. Properties with delinquent taxes may be subject to tax sale procedures after one year.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Yes, Ashley County offers online payment options through their official website. Credit card payments may incur processing fees.

Q: Why is my tax rate different from my neighbor's? A: Tax rates vary within Ashley County based on special taxing districts such as school districts, fire districts, and improvement districts. Properties in different areas may have different combinations of these additional levies added to the base county rate.

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