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Updated 2025 Tax Year

Bristol County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
Base rate $13.36 per $1,000 assessed value, varies by district and special assessments
Exemptions
4+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Bristol County, Rhode Island operates on a property tax system that serves as the primary funding source for local government services, including public safety, education, infrastructure maintenance, and community services. The property tax levy supports approximately 65% of the county's $39 million annual budget, making it a crucial component of local government financing.

Property owners in Bristol County face an effective tax rate that varies by location within the county due to special taxing districts and municipal boundaries. The base residential and commercial tax rate is $13.36 per $1,000 of assessed value, though some areas may have additional assessments for special districts or services. Property assessments are conducted regularly, and the county does not impose a cap on assessment increases, though various tax credits are available to qualifying property owners to help manage tax burden growth.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRate per $1,000Description
Base Municipal Tax$13.36Core municipal services for residential and commercial properties
Tangible Personal Property$15.34Rate for business personal property and equipment
Special District AssessmentsVariesAdditional charges for fire districts, lighting districts, or other special services
School District LevyIncluded in baseEducational funding incorporated into municipal rate

Rates effective for FY 2025-2026 levy year. Actual tax rates may vary by specific location within Bristol County due to special taxing districts and municipal boundaries. Property owners should verify their specific rate with the local tax assessor.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Bristol 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 tax bills are issued when property changes occur after the December 31st assessment date. Common triggers include new construction projects, property subdivisions, change of ownership, or completion of major improvements that were not captured in the annual assessment. The supplemental tax is calculated as a prorated amount based on the number of months remaining in the current tax year.

For example, if a property owner completes a $100,000 home addition in March that increases the assessed value by $100,000, they would receive a supplemental bill for approximately $167 ($100,000 ÷ 1,000 × $13.36 × 9 months ÷ 12 months) covering March through December of that tax year.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $300,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: -$50,000 (requires application)
  • Net Taxable Value: $250,000
  • Annual Tax: $250,000 ÷ 1,000 × $13.36 = $3,340
  • Monthly Escrow: $278

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $600,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: -$50,000 (requires application)
  • Net Taxable Value: $550,000
  • Annual Tax: $550,000 ÷ 1,000 × $13.36 = $7,348
  • Monthly Escrow: $612

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000
  • Homestead Credit Applied: -$50,000 (requires application)
  • Net Taxable Value: $950,000
  • Annual Tax: $950,000 ÷ 1,000 × $13.36 = $12,692
  • Monthly Escrow: $1,058

All tax credits require application and are not automatically applied. Contact the Bristol County Tax Assessor for current credit amounts and eligibility requirements.

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Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders require property tax escrow accounts for Bristol County properties. Lenders collect monthly tax payments as part of your mortgage payment and hold funds in escrow to pay quarterly tax bills on your behalf. The quarterly payment schedule (August 15, November 15, February 15, and May 15) requires lenders to maintain adequate reserves to cover each payment period.

Property owners should verify that their lender has current tax information, especially after assessment changes or when tax credits are applied or removed. If your property taxes increase due to reassessment or loss of credits, your lender will adjust your monthly escrow payment and may require an escrow shortage payment to cover any deficit in the account.

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 Bristol County property taxes due for FY 2025-2026? A: Property taxes are due quarterly on August 15, November 15, February 15, and May 15. The current quarter's due date is May 15, 2026.

Q: What tax credits are available and do they require application? A: The primary tax credit is the Owner-Occupied (Homestead) Credit, which requires annual application. All tax credits must be applied for and are not automatically granted. Contact the tax assessor's office for a complete list of available credits.

Q: How does the Homestead Credit work? A: The Homestead Credit limits assessment increases on owner-occupied properties rather than reducing market value. It requires annual application by March 15th and helps cap property tax growth for primary residences.

Q: How often are properties reassessed? A: Properties are subject to regular reassessment. The county conducts periodic revaluations to ensure assessments reflect current market values. Property owners receive notice of assessment changes and have appeal rights.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: Late payments incur interest charges and penalties. Contact the tax collector's office for current penalty rates and payment options if you cannot meet the quarterly due dates.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Yes, Bristol County offers online payment options. Visit the official county website or contact the tax collector's office for secure payment portal access and accepted payment methods.

Q: What are special district taxes? A: Some areas within Bristol County have additional special district assessments for services like fire protection, street lighting, or water districts. These appear as separate line items on your tax bill.

Q: When is the application deadline for tax credits? A: Applications and re-applications for Bristol's homestead credit are due March 15, 2026. All applications must be filed with the Tax Assessor's office and require proper documentation of eligibility.

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