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Updated 2025 Tax Year

Rockbridge County
Property Tax Guide

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

8 Official Sources
8 min read
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Quick Facts
Tax Rate
Base rate varies by district - incorporated towns and special service districts have different rates than unincorporated areas
Exemptions
3+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Rockbridge County's property tax system is the primary funding source for essential local services including public schools, law enforcement, fire protection, road maintenance, and county administration. Property taxes in Rockbridge County are based on 100% of assessed fair market value, with assessments conducted regularly to maintain current valuations.

The effective tax rate varies by location within Rockbridge County due to special taxing districts that may impose additional levies for services like fire protection or sanitation. Property owners should verify their specific tax rate based on their address, as residents in incorporated towns or special service districts may pay different rates than those in unincorporated areas of the county.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRate per $100Description
Real Estate Tax$0.64Base county rate for FY 2025
Personal Property Tax$4.25Vehicles, boats, business equipment
Special District AssessmentsVariesAdditional charges for fire protection, sanitation, or other services depending on location

Note: These rates apply to the 2025 tax year and are based on 100% assessed valuation. Actual tax bills may include additional assessments for special taxing districts within Rockbridge County. Property owners should check with the Commissioner of the Revenue to determine all applicable rates for their specific address.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Rockbridge 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 are additional property tax bills issued when there are changes in property ownership, new construction, or improvements that increase assessed value during the tax year. In Rockbridge County, supplemental taxes are calculated based on the prorated period from the date of change through the end of the fiscal year (June 30).

For example, if you purchase a home in January that was previously exempt from taxation or complete a major renovation that increases your home's assessed value by $50,000, you would receive a supplemental tax bill. The supplemental tax would be calculated at $0.64 per $100 of the increased value ($320 annually), prorated for the remaining months of the fiscal year (approximately $160 for six months).

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $300,000
  • Less: Elderly/Disabled Tax Relief (if qualified): $0-50,000*
  • Net Taxable Value: $300,000
  • Annual Tax: $300,000 ÷ 100 × $0.64 = $1,920
  • Monthly Escrow: $160

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $600,000
  • Less: Veteran Disability Exemption (if qualified): varies*
  • Net Taxable Value: $600,000
  • Annual Tax: $600,000 ÷ 100 × $0.64 = $3,840
  • Monthly Escrow: $320

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000
  • Less: Available tax credits (if qualified): varies*
  • Net Taxable Value: $1,000,000
  • Annual Tax: $1,000,000 ÷ 100 × $0.64 = $6,400
  • Monthly Escrow: $533

*All tax credits and exemptions require application and qualification verification. Contact the Commissioner of the Revenue for specific eligibility requirements and application procedures.

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Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders require property tax escrow accounts for Rockbridge County properties. Your lender collects monthly payments equal to 1/12 of your estimated annual property tax bill and holds these funds in a separate escrow account. The lender pays your property taxes directly to Rockbridge County when they become due.

Property tax bills in Rockbridge County are typically due by December 5th each year. Lenders usually pay taxes before the due date to avoid penalties. Your lender will provide an annual escrow analysis showing tax payments made on your behalf and any required adjustments to your monthly escrow amount. You can verify that taxes were paid correctly by checking with the Rockbridge County Treasurer's office or accessing online tax records.

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 property taxes due in Rockbridge County? A: Real estate taxes are due by December 5th for the current fiscal year. Personal property taxes have separate due dates - check with the Treasurer's office for specific deadlines.

Q: What tax credits are available and how do I apply? A: Elderly/disabled tax relief is available for qualifying residents 65+ or permanently disabled. Veterans with 100% service-connected disabilities may qualify for exemptions. ALL credits require application through the Commissioner of the Revenue office - they are not automatic.

Q: How does the elderly tax relief program work? A: This program provides tax relief (not exemption from taxes) for qualifying elderly or disabled residents. It reduces your tax liability based on income limits. You must apply annually, and relief amounts vary based on income and disability status.

Q: How often are properties reassessed? A: Rockbridge County conducts periodic reassessments to maintain current market values. Property owners receive assessment notices and have the right to appeal during specified time periods.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: Late payments incur interest and penalty charges. Contact the Treasurer's office for current penalty rates and payment options to avoid additional fees.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Yes, Rockbridge County offers online payment options. Visit the county website or contact the Treasurer's office for available electronic payment methods and any associated fees.

Q: Do I pay different rates if I live in a town within Rockbridge County? A: Yes, residents of incorporated towns may pay additional municipal taxes on top of county taxes. Special service districts may also impose additional assessments for fire protection or other services.

Q: What if I disagree with my property assessment? A: You have the right to appeal your assessment. Contact the Commissioner of the Revenue for appeal procedures and deadlines, which typically occur during specific time periods after assessment notices are mailed.

Verified Sources

Backed by 8 Official Government Sources

Every fact in this guide is sourced from official county, state, and federal documents.

01
County
Personal Property Tax | Rockbridge County, VAco.rockbridge.va.us
02
County
Real Estate Tax | Rockbridge County, VA - Official Websiteco.rockbridge.va.us
03
County
Current Rates | Rockbridge County, VA - Official Websiteco.rockbridge.va.us
04
County
Real Estate Tax Relief | Rockbridge County, VAco.rockbridge.va.us
05
County
FAQs | Rockbridge County, VA - Official Websiteco.rockbridge.va.us
06
County
ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY CODE Chapter 25 TAXATIONco.rockbridge.va.us
07
County
at a regular meeting of the rockbridge county board of ...co.rockbridge.va.us
08
County
city of buena vista-county of rockbridgedhcd.virginia.gov
All sources verified as of 2025 Tax Year

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