HonestCasa logoHonestCasa
Updated 2025 Tax Year

Webster County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
0.8% to 1.2% of assessed value (varies by district and special taxing areas)
Exemptions
4+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Webster County, West Virginia operates under the state's property tax system, which serves as a primary funding source for local government services, schools, and infrastructure improvements. Property taxes in Webster County fund essential services including public education, emergency services, road maintenance, and county administration. The county follows West Virginia's assessment practices, with property typically assessed at approximately 60% of fair market value for residential properties.

Property tax rates in Webster County vary by location within the county due to special taxing districts, municipal boundaries, and local improvement districts. The effective tax rate generally ranges from approximately 0.8% to 1.2% of assessed value, depending on your specific location and applicable local levies. Property owners should note that their exact tax rate depends on which special districts serve their property, such as school districts, fire districts, or municipal services.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

Based on available data, specific tax rates for Webster County for the current levy year are pending publication by the WV State Tax Department. Property tax rates in Webster County typically include the following components:

ComponentRateDescription
County General LevyTBD*Basic county operations and services
School LevyTBD*Local school district operations
State LevyTBD*State-mandated assessment
Municipal LevyTBD*City services (if applicable)
Special District LeviesVariesFire districts, library districts, other special assessments

*Specific rates for the current levy year are not yet published. Contact the Webster County Assessor's office at (304) 847-2508 for the most current rate information. Rates vary significantly by special taxing districts within the county, so your actual combined rate depends on your property's specific location and which districts provide services to your area.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Webster 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 property taxes in Webster County are additional tax bills issued when property ownership changes, new construction is completed, or significant improvements are made to existing property during the tax year. These supplemental bills are calculated based on the difference between the new assessed value and the previous assessed value, prorated for the remaining months in the tax year.

For example, if you purchase a home in November and the new assessment increases the property's taxable value by $50,000, you would receive a supplemental tax bill for the increased assessment covering November through the end of the tax year. The supplemental tax would be calculated as: ($50,000 × applicable tax rate) × (2 months remaining ÷ 12 months). Supplemental taxes follow the same payment schedule as regular property taxes and are typically due within 30 days of issuance.

Example Calculation

The following examples show estimated annual property tax calculations for Webster County properties. Note that actual rates vary by specific location and special districts:

$300,000 Property:

  • Assessed Value (60%): $180,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if qualified): -$20,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $160,000
  • Annual Tax (estimated 1.0%): $1,600
  • Monthly Payment: $133

$600,000 Property:

  • Assessed Value (60%): $360,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if qualified): -$20,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $340,000
  • Annual Tax (estimated 1.0%): $3,400
  • Monthly Payment: $283

$1,000,000 Property:

  • Assessed Value (60%): $600,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if qualified): -$20,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $580,000
  • Annual Tax (estimated 1.0%): $5,800
  • Monthly Payment: $483

*All tax credits require application and approval. Contact the Webster County Assessor at (304) 847-2508 for current rates and credit applications.

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 Webster County require property tax escrow accounts for borrowers with less than 20% equity. Your lender collects monthly escrow payments equal to 1/12th of your annual property tax bill, plus insurance premiums. The lender pays your property taxes directly to the Webster County Sheriff's office when bills are due on September 1st and March 1st.

Lenders typically maintain a cushion in your escrow account equal to 2-3 months of payments to ensure sufficient funds are available. Your escrow account is analyzed annually, and your monthly payment may be adjusted based on changes in tax assessments or tax rates. You'll receive an annual escrow statement showing all deposits, payments, and account balances. If you pay taxes independently, ensure payments reach the Sheriff's office by the due dates to avoid penalties and interest charges.

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 Webster County? A: Property taxes are due in two installments: the first installment is due September 1st of the tax year, and the second installment is due March 1st of the following year. Late payments incur penalties and interest.

Q: What homestead tax credits are available and how do I apply? A: West Virginia offers a homestead property tax credit that limits annual assessment increases for qualified homeowners. This credit requires application through the Webster County Assessor's office. Contact (304) 847-2508 for application forms and eligibility requirements. Applications typically must be filed by a specific annual deadline.

Q: How does the homestead credit work? A: The homestead credit caps the annual increase in your property's assessed value, typically limiting increases to a certain percentage each year. It does not reduce your property's market value but limits how much your assessed value can grow annually for tax purposes. You must apply for this credit - it is not automatic.

Q: How often are properties reassessed? A: West Virginia conducts periodic county-wide reappraisals. Contact the Webster County Assessor at (304) 847-2508 for the current reassessment schedule and to understand how it affects your property.

Q: How do I appeal my property assessment? A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Webster County Board of Equalization and Review within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. Contact the Assessor's office for appeal forms and procedures.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: Late property tax payments incur penalties and interest charges. Contact the Webster County Sheriff's office for specific penalty rates and payment options if you've missed a due date.

Q: Can I pay property taxes online? A: Contact the Webster County Sheriff's office at (304) 847-7721 to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods for property taxes.

Q: Why did my tax bill increase when my assessment stayed the same? A: Tax bills can increase even with unchanged assessments due to changes in tax rates, new special district assessments, or the expiration of temporary tax credits. Review your tax bill for rate changes and contact the Assessor's office with questions about specific line items.

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