HonestCasa logoHonestCasa
All Tax Guides
Updated 2025 Tax Year

Talbot County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Calculate Your True CostMortgage Calculator
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
$0.73-$0.79 per $100 of assessed value, varies by location and special taxing districts
Exemptions
5+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Talbot County, Maryland operates on a property tax system that serves as the primary funding mechanism for essential local services including education, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and county operations. Property taxes in Talbot County are assessed annually based on the market value of real property as determined by the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation. The county's effective tax rate typically ranges from approximately $0.73 to $0.79 per $100 of assessed valuation, depending on your specific location within the county.

It's important to note that actual tax rates vary significantly by location within Talbot County due to special taxing districts and municipal boundaries. Properties within incorporated towns such as Easton, Oxford, and St. Michaels may have different rate structures, and some areas may be subject to additional special district assessments for services like fire protection or water management. Property owners should verify their specific tax rate based on their exact location and any applicable special district levies.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRate (per $100)DescriptionFiscal Year
County Base Levy$0.7910Core county services and operationsFY 2026
Education Supplement$0.048Additional school funding supplementFY 2024 rate
Municipal Rates$0.7325Rate for incorporated town limitsFY 2026
Special DistrictsVariesFire districts, water/sewer districtsVaries by district

Note: The FY 2026 county-wide real property tax rate is $0.7910 per $100 of assessed valuation for unincorporated areas. Properties within incorporated town limits are subject to the town rate of $0.7325 per $100 of assessed valuation. Additional special district assessments may apply depending on your property location. Rates are subject to annual changes based on county budget requirements and state mandates.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Talbot 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 taxes in Talbot County are triggered by specific events that change a property's assessed value during the tax year, primarily new construction completion, property improvements, or ownership transfers that result in reassessment. When these events occur, the county calculates the difference between the old and new assessed values and applies the current tax rate to determine the supplemental amount owed.

The supplemental tax is calculated by taking the increase in assessed value, multiplying by the applicable tax rate, and prorating for the portion of the fiscal year remaining. For example, if a $100,000 home improvement is completed and assessed in January (halfway through the fiscal year), the supplemental tax would be: ($100,000 ÷ 100) × $0.7910 × 0.5 = $395.50. Supplemental tax bills are issued separately from regular annual tax bills and have their own due dates, typically 30 days from the bill date.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $300,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: Limits assessment increases to 10% annually
  • Net Taxable Value: $300,000
  • Tax Rate: $0.7910 per $100
  • Annual Tax: $2,373
  • Monthly Escrow: $198

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $600,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: Assessment increase capped at 10%
  • Net Taxable Value: $600,000
  • Tax Rate: $0.7910 per $100
  • Annual Tax: $4,746
  • Monthly Escrow: $396

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: 10% assessment increase cap
  • Net Taxable Value: $1,000,000
  • Tax Rate: $0.7910 per $100
  • Annual Tax: $7,910
  • Monthly Escrow: $659

Important Note: All tax credits require formal application and are not automatically applied. The Homestead Credit limits annual assessment increases but does not reduce the actual assessed value of your property.

See How Taxes Affect Your Payment

Property taxes are just part of your total monthly cost. Get the full picture.

Calculate Now
Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders in Talbot County require property tax escrow accounts to ensure timely payment of property taxes. Your lender collects monthly escrow payments along with your mortgage payment, typically calculating 1/12th of your annual tax bill plus a small buffer. The lender is responsible for making tax payments to the county on your behalf when taxes become due.

Escrow accounts are analyzed annually, and lenders may adjust your monthly payment based on actual tax bills and account balances. You'll receive an annual escrow statement showing all deposits and payments. Since Talbot County property taxes are due September 30th with semi-annual payment options (July 1st and December 31st), lenders typically make payments during these periods. Property owners should verify with their lender that payments are made timely, as you remain ultimately responsible for tax obligations even when using escrow services.

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 Talbot County for FY 2026? A: Real property taxes are due by September 30th each year. You can also pay in semi-annual installments with the first half due July 1st and second half due December 31st. Interest and penalties begin accruing after October 1st.

Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply? A: The primary credit is the Homestead Tax Credit, which caps annual assessment increases at 10%. This credit requires a formal application to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation and is NOT automatic. You must apply by the annual deadline to receive this benefit.

Q: How does the Homestead Credit work? A: The Homestead Credit limits how much your property's assessed value can increase each year for tax purposes, capping increases at 10% annually. It does not reduce your property's market value or assessment - it only limits the rate of taxable assessment growth. You must file an application to receive this credit.

Q: How often are properties reassessed? A: Maryland conducts property reassessments on a three-year cycle. Talbot County properties are typically reassessed as part of this statewide rotation. Property owners can appeal assessments through the Property Tax Assessment Appeals Board if they believe their assessment is incorrect.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: Interest and penalties begin accruing on unpaid taxes after October 1st. A service charge of up to 1.410% may be applied to unpaid balances. Contact the Talbot County Finance Office at 410-770-8020 for specific penalty calculations.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Yes, Talbot County offers online payment options for property taxes. Contact the Finance Office for specific payment portal information and accepted payment methods.

Q: Why is my tax rate different from my neighbor's? A: Tax rates vary based on your exact location within Talbot County. Properties in incorporated towns, special taxing districts, or areas with additional service districts may have different rates. Municipal boundaries and special district lines determine your specific rate.

Q: Where do I apply for the Homestead Credit? A: Applications must be submitted to the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, not the county. You can apply online at their website, by phone at 410-767-2165 (Baltimore area) or 1-866-650-8783 (elsewhere in Maryland), or by mail. You'll need your Real Property Account Number and Access Number to apply online.

Verified Sources

Backed by 10 Official Government Sources

Every fact in this guide is sourced from official county, state, and federal documents.

01
County
COUNTY COUNCIL OF TALBOT COUNTY 2025 ...engage.talbotcountymd.gov
02
FY 2025 FY 2026 REVENUES APPROVED BUDGET ...talbotcountymd.gov
03
FY2024-2025dlslibrary.state.md.us
04
County
Taxes Summary - Talbot County, Marylandtalbotcountymd.gov
05
County
Overview - Talbot County, Marylandtalbotcountymd.gov
06
County
Property Owners - Talbot County, Marylandtalbotcountymd.gov
07
Tax Doc
Homestead Tax Credit Eligibility Application Processtalbotcountymd.gov
08
County
Talbot County, Marylandtalbotcountymd.gov
09
Marylandirs.gov
10
FY 2024 Approved Budget Ordinance Bill 1529. ...talbotcountymd.gov
All sources verified as of 2025 Tax Year

See the Full Picture of Your Home Costs

Property taxes are just one piece of homeownership. HonestCasa helps you understand your total monthly cost and explore safe ways to access your home equity.

Total Monthly Cost

Mortgage + taxes + insurance + HOA

Equity Growth

Track how your equity grows over time

Safe Equity Access

Options for projects or debt payoff

Run Your ScenarioTry Calculator

Free • No credit check • 2-minute estimate