Q: When are property taxes due in Mountrail County?
A: Property taxes are due April 15th annually. For Tax Year 2025, the due date is April 15, 2025, with a 5% penalty applied after May 15, 2025.
Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary credit is the Homestead Property Tax Credit, which can reduce your tax bill by up to several thousand dollars annually. This credit REQUIRES an annual application filed with the North Dakota Tax Department. Other credits may include disabled veteran credits and elderly/disabled person credits - all require separate applications.
Q: How does the Homestead Tax Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit doesn't reduce your property's market value, but rather caps annual assessment increases and provides a direct tax bill reduction. You must apply annually by April 15th through the ND Tax Department. This is NOT automatic and requires income eligibility verification.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Mountrail County?
A: Properties are subject to annual assessment review, with comprehensive revaluations typically occurring every 6 years. The county assessor may adjust individual property values annually based on market conditions, improvements, or sales data.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Mountrail County Board of Equalization by April 15th. Contact the Assessor's office at (701) 628-2915 for appeal forms and procedures. You'll need comparable sales data or professional appraisals to support your appeal.
Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late?
A: A 5% penalty is added to unpaid taxes after May 15th, with an additional 1% interest charged monthly. Properties become delinquent after three years, potentially leading to tax deed proceedings.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Contact the Mountrail County Treasurer at (701) 628-2405 to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods.
Q: Why do properties in the same neighborhood have different tax rates?
A: Tax rates vary based on special taxing districts serving each property. Different school districts, water districts, townships, and special assessment areas create rate variations even between neighboring properties.
Q: What are special assessments and how do they affect my bill?
A: Special assessments fund specific improvements like road paving, drainage projects, or utility installations that benefit particular properties. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill and may continue for multiple years until the improvement costs are recovered.
Q: Where can I get current tax rate information?
A: Contact the Mountrail County Assessor at (701) 628-2915 or visit the county website at www.co.mountrail.nd.us. Tax rates are typically finalized by county commissioners in late fall for the following tax year.
