Q: When are property taxes due in Donley County for FY 2025-2026?
A: Property taxes can be paid in two installments: the first installment is due by October 1st, and the second installment is due by January 1st. Alternatively, you can pay the full amount by January 31st without penalty.
Q: What is the homestead exemption and how do I apply?
A: The homestead exemption provides a $100,000 reduction in assessed value for school district taxes on your primary residence. It also caps annual assessment increases at 10%. You must apply with the Donley County Appraisal District by April 30th, and the exemption is not automatic.
Q: Are there other tax credits or exemptions available?
A: Yes, additional exemptions may be available for seniors (65+), disabled persons, disabled veterans, and their surviving spouses. Each requires a separate application with supporting documentation filed by the April 30th deadline. These exemptions reduce assessed value, not the tax bill directly.
Q: How is my property's value determined?
A: Property values are assessed annually as of January 1st by the Donley County Appraisal District based on market value. The appraisal district considers recent sales of comparable properties, property condition, location, and market trends.
Q: Can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Yes, you can file a protest with the Donley County Appraisal Review Board if you believe your assessment is incorrect. The deadline for filing protests is typically May 15th or 30 days after receiving your notice of appraised value, whichever is later.
Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late?
A: Late payments incur penalty and interest charges. Penalties start at 6% for payments made in February, increasing to 7% in March, 8% in April, 9% in May, 10% in June, and 12% in July and thereafter, plus annual interest.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Donley County Tax Assessor-Collector's office to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods for the current tax year.
Q: Why do tax rates vary within Donley County?
A: Tax rates vary because different areas of the county are served by different combinations of taxing entities such as school districts, cities, hospital districts, and other special districts. Each entity sets its own tax rate, and your total rate is the sum of all applicable jurisdictions.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax assessment?
A: Supplemental taxes are assessed when property changes ownership, new construction is completed, or improvements are made that increase the property's value during the tax year. These result in additional tax bills prorated for the remaining months of the tax year.
Q: How does the 10% assessment cap work for homesteads?
A: The homestead cap limits annual increases in assessed value to 10% for properties with a homestead exemption. This caps the growth in taxable value, not the market value, and requires an approved homestead exemption application to be in effect.
