HonestCasa logoHonestCasa
Updated 2025 Tax Year

Madison County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
36 cents per $100 of assessed valuation (2025-2026), reduced from 50 cents, may vary by location within county
Exemptions
4+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Madison County, North Carolina operates on a property tax system that serves as a primary funding source for essential local services including public schools, emergency services, infrastructure maintenance, and county operations. The county's property tax rate for the 2025-2026 fiscal year is set at 36 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, representing a significant reduction from the previous rate of 50 cents per $100.

Property taxes in Madison County are assessed based on the property's fair market value as determined by the county assessor, with comprehensive revaluations conducted periodically. The most recent revaluation was completed in 2024, with notices mailed to property owners on June 28, 2024. It's important to note that actual tax rates may vary by location within the county due to special taxing districts, municipal taxes, and additional assessments that may apply to specific areas or services.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRate per $100Description
Madison County Base Rate$0.36General county operations, schools, and services for FY 2025-2026
Special DistrictsVariesAdditional assessments may apply based on location
Municipal TaxesVariesAdditional rates for incorporated areas

Note: The base rate of $0.36 per $100 valuation applies to the 2025-2026 levy year. Property owners should verify if additional special district taxes apply to their specific location, as rates can vary significantly within Madison County boundaries depending on municipal incorporation and special service districts.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Madison 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 Madison County are triggered by changes in property ownership, new construction, or improvements that increase a property's assessed value after the annual assessment date of January 1st. When these changes occur, the county tax assessor calculates additional taxes based on the increased assessed value for the remaining portion of the tax year.

For example, if a homeowner completes a $50,000 addition to their property in June, and the county's tax rate is $0.36 per $100 valuation, the supplemental tax would be calculated as: ($50,000 ÷ $100) × $0.36 × (remaining months in tax year ÷ 12 months). This supplemental assessment ensures that property improvements are taxed proportionally for the current tax year rather than waiting until the following year's regular assessment.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $300,000
  • Tax Credits Applied: $0 (no credits applied)
  • Net Taxable Value: $300,000
  • Annual Tax: ($300,000 ÷ $100) × $0.36 = $1,080
  • Monthly Escrow: $90

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $600,000
  • Tax Credits Applied: $0 (no credits applied)
  • Net Taxable Value: $600,000
  • Annual Tax: ($600,000 ÷ $100) × $0.36 = $2,160
  • Monthly Escrow: $180

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000
  • Tax Credits Applied: $0 (no credits applied)
  • Net Taxable Value: $1,000,000
  • Annual Tax: ($1,000,000 ÷ $100) × $0.36 = $3,600
  • Monthly Escrow: $300

Note: These examples assume no tax credits are applied. Various tax credits may be available but require separate application to the Madison County Tax Office.

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 Madison County require property tax escrow accounts to ensure timely payment of annual property taxes. Lenders typically collect 1/12th of the estimated annual property tax bill each month along with your mortgage payment. Since Madison County property taxes are due by October 31st each year, lenders usually pay the tax bill directly to the county on behalf of homeowners.

Property owners should verify their escrow account balance annually and review their mortgage statements to ensure adequate funds are being collected. If property values increase significantly due to revaluation or improvements, you may need to adjust your monthly escrow contribution. Contact your lender immediately if you receive a supplemental tax bill, as this may not be covered by your existing escrow calculations and could require a separate payment or escrow adjustment.

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 Madison County property taxes due for the current fiscal year? A: Property taxes are due by October 31st each year. For the 2025 tax year, the due date remains October 31, 2025.

Q: What tax credits are available, and do I need to apply? A: Various tax credits may be available for eligible property owners, including credits for seniors, veterans, and disabled individuals. All tax credits require separate application and are NOT automatically applied. Contact the Madison County Tax Administrator at (828) 649-3402 extension 3 for specific credit eligibility and application requirements.

Q: Is there a homestead credit that limits assessment increases? A: North Carolina may offer assessment limitation programs for qualified homeowners. These programs typically cap annual assessment increases rather than reducing market value. Applications are required and must be filed by specified deadlines. Check with the Madison County Tax Office for current homestead programs and application procedures.

Q: How often are properties reassessed in Madison County? A: Madison County conducts comprehensive property revaluations periodically. The most recent revaluation was completed in 2024, with notices mailed to property owners on June 28, 2024.

Q: How do I appeal my property assessment? A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Madison County Tax Administrator. Visit the Madison County Tax Office at 5707 US Hwy 25/70, Room 25, Marshall, NC 28753, or call (828) 649-3402 extension 3. Appeal deadlines are strictly enforced.

Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments? A: Late payments are subject to penalties and interest charges. Delinquent taxes are handled by the Madison County Sheriff's Office, and properties may be subject to tax lien procedures.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Contact the Madison County Tax Office directly at (828) 649-3402 extension 3 to inquire about available online payment options and accepted payment methods.

Q: Do special district taxes apply to my property? A: Special district taxes may apply depending on your property's location within Madison County. These additional assessments vary by district and are added to the base county rate of $0.36 per $100 valuation.

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