Montana Property Owners Face Increased Tax Bills Following Montana Supreme Court Ruling
Matt Poling, Principal 720.524.0022 | matt.poling@ryan.com
A recent ruling by the Montana Supreme Court1 mandated the elimination of a previous reduction in the state’s portion of property taxes. This decision coincides with record-high reappraisal values and a decision by the Legislature to maintain the residential tax rate. This will lead to significantly higher tax bills for property owners. The additional taxes to be collected are estimated to be $81 million. Property owners are reminded that the second half of property taxes is due by May 31, with any additional charges appearing as standalone charges on amended bills.
For property owners who have already paid their second-half taxes, the additional amount will appear separately on the amended bill. Those paying through mortgage should ensure their lender handles the additional payment correctly. For those yet to pay, the amended bill will reflect the total amount owed, with software limitations showing $0.00 for the first half payment, though this does not signify payment. Property owners can verify payments and check for any delinquent taxes on each county’s website.
It is emphasized that property owners should review their amended bills carefully and make payments on time to comply with the Court’s ruling and facilitate additional tax revenue collection for the state’s school equalization budgetary needs.
The experts at Ryan will continue to monitor the impact of these increases and are available to answer questions.
[1] Mont. Ass’n of Cntys. (MACO) v. State, No. OP 23-0635, 2023 Mont. LEXIS 1076 (October 27, 2023).