HonestCasa logoHonestCasa
Updated 2025 Tax Year

Stevens County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
1.0% to 1.33% of market value for residential homestead properties, varies by taxing district combination
1st Due
May 15
2nd Due
Oct 15
Exemptions
5+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Stevens County, Minnesota operates on an ad valorem property tax system that funds essential local government services including county operations, schools, townships, and various special districts. Property taxes are the primary revenue source for these services, with the county collecting taxes on behalf of multiple taxing authorities within its boundaries.

The effective property tax rate in Stevens County typically ranges around 1.0% to 1.33% of market value for residential homestead properties, though actual rates vary significantly by location within the county due to different combinations of school districts, townships, cities, and special taxing districts. Property owners should note that their specific tax rate depends on which taxing jurisdictions serve their property location, and rates are finalized annually by each taxing authority's governing board.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentApproximate RateDescription
County General Levy0.25-0.35%General county operations, roads, law enforcement
School District Levy0.60-0.85%Local school operations and facilities
Township/City Levy0.10-0.25%Municipal services, fire protection
Special Districts0.05-0.15%Library, watershed, soil & water conservation
Total Effective Rate1.00-1.60%Varies by specific property location

Note: These rates apply to the 2025 tax year (payable in 2025-2026). Actual rates vary by property classification and specific taxing district combinations. Agricultural and seasonal recreational properties may have different effective rates. Final 2025 rates are set by each taxing authority's governing board and may not yet be finalized.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

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

First Installment
May 15
Delinquent after Dec 10
Second Installment
Oct 15
Delinquent after Apr 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 Stevens County are typically triggered by new construction, additions, or changes in property ownership that result in reassessment during the tax year. When improvements are completed or ownership transfers occur, the county assessor may issue a supplemental assessment to capture the increased property value for the remainder of the current tax year.

Supplemental taxes are calculated by determining the difference between the new assessed value and the original assessed value, then applying the current year's tax rate to that difference, prorated for the remaining months in the tax year. For example, if a $50,000 addition is completed in July and the effective tax rate is 1.2%, the supplemental tax would be approximately ($50,000 × 1.2% × 6/12 months) = $300 for the remaining six months of the tax year.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Residential Homestead

  • Market Value: $300,000
  • Less: Homestead Market Value Credit: -$40,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $260,000
  • Tax Rate (estimated): 1.10%
  • Annual Tax: $2,860
  • Monthly Escrow: $238

Example 2: $600,000 Residential Homestead

  • Market Value: $600,000
  • Less: Homestead Market Value Credit: -$40,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $560,000
  • Tax Rate (estimated): 1.15%
  • Annual Tax: $6,440
  • Monthly Escrow: $537

Example 3: $1,000,000 Non-Homestead Residential

  • Market Value: $1,000,000
  • Less: No homestead credit (requires application and owner occupancy)
  • Net Taxable Value: $1,000,000
  • Tax Rate (estimated): 1.25%
  • Annual Tax: $12,500
  • Monthly Escrow: $1,042

Note: Homestead credits require annual application and owner occupancy. Additional credits may be available for seniors, disabled veterans, or agricultural properties but require separate applications.

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 Stevens County require borrowers to maintain an escrow account for property taxes, collecting monthly payments along with principal and interest. Lenders typically collect 1/12 of the annual tax bill each month, plus a cushion of up to two months of payments as allowed by federal law.

Property taxes in Stevens County are payable in two installments: the first half is due by November 15th, and the second half is due by March 15th of the following year. Lenders usually pay the first installment in November and the second in March directly to the county treasurer. Property owners should verify that their lender has made these payments and review their annual escrow analysis statement to ensure adequate funds are being collected for any tax increases.

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 Stevens County property taxes due for 2025? A: The first half installment is due November 15, 2025, and the second half is due March 15, 2026. Payments received after these dates incur penalty charges.

Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application? A: The Homestead Market Value Credit requires annual application by December 15th and limits assessment increases while reducing taxable value. Additional credits include the Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral, Disabled Veterans Homestead Credit, and Agricultural Land Credit - all requiring separate applications with specific deadlines.

Q: How does the Homestead Credit work? A: The Homestead Credit caps annual assessment increases and provides market value exclusions up to certain limits. It requires the property owner to occupy the home as their primary residence and file an application. This credit limits how much your assessment can increase year-over-year, typically to 10% or less.

Q: When are properties reassessed in Stevens County? A: Properties are physically inspected on a cyclical basis, but market values are updated annually. Assessment notices are mailed in March, and appeals must be filed by April 30th with the local board of appeal and equalization.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: A penalty of 3% is added on November 16th for the first half payment and March 16th for the second half. Additional penalties and interest accrue monthly on delinquent amounts.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Yes, Stevens County offers online payment options through their official website. Electronic payments may have processing fees, and payment deadlines still apply regardless of payment method.

Q: Why do property taxes vary within Stevens County? A: Tax rates differ based on which combination of school district, city/township, and special districts serve each property. Rural properties may have different taxing authorities than urban properties.

Q: How do I apply for the Homestead Credit? A: Contact the Stevens County Assessor's office before December 15th annually. The application requires proof of primary residency and property ownership. First-time applicants should apply as soon as possible after purchasing a home.

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

Free • No credit check • 2-minute estimate