McCone Property Tax rates in 2026 average 0.68% of assessed value, putting the median bill near $1,429 for a $211,600 home, well below the national average. McCone County tax assessor can be reached at (406) 485‑3565, with the office located at 1004 C Avenue, Circle, MT 59215. The first half of the bill must be paid by the McCone property tax payment deadline of November 30, and the online property tax portal McCone provides a quick way to submit credit‑card or debit‑card payments. Homeowners can use the residential property tax calculator McCone on the county website to estimate their due amount before filing.
McCone Property Tax also includes specific rules for agricultural and commercial parcels, with agricultural property tax relief McCone offering reduced millage for qualifying farms. If you believe your valuation is incorrect, the how to appeal McCone property tax assessment guide notes the appeal deadline falls 30 days after the notice of valuation, and appeals are filed through the McCone County tax assessor office. Nonprofit organizations may qualify for Montana property tax exemption criteria, and the county tax collector contact (406) 485‑3505 can confirm eligibility. All required forms, including McCone County property tax forms PDF, are downloadable from the official website, and the property tax bill lookup McCone tool helps you verify current balances and lien status.
Search McCone County Property Tax
McCone County property tax records, parcel valuations, ownership history, and current billing status are maintained by the McCone County Assessor and made available to the public through official channels. The public search portal allows anyone to look up data by parcel number, owner name, or physical address. For specific portal access, contact the McCone County offices directly using the verified phone numbers listed below.
Follow these steps to search McCone property tax records online:
- Visit the official McCone County website or contact the Assessor’s office for the current search portal link
- Locate the Assessor, Treasurer, or property search section in the main navigation
- Enter the parcel number, property address, or owner last name into the search field
- Review the displayed valuation, tax history, exemption status, and current balance
- Contact the McCone County offices for any data clarification
The McCone County Assessor maintains all real property, mobile home, and personal property records within the county, and updates follow Montana’s two-year revaluation cycle. For in-person searches, the assessor office is located within the McCone County Courthouse in Circle, MT.
McCone County Property Tax Rates and Statistical Snapshot
McCone County sits well below both the state and national averages for residential property tax burden, making it one of the more affordable counties for homeowners in Montana. The 2026 data shows the median annual bill at $1,429 for a median home valued at $211,600, producing an effective tax rate of approximately 0.68%. That rate falls roughly 25% below the Montana state average and 28% below the national median, giving McCone County homeowners meaningful savings compared to higher-tax jurisdictions.
McCone County Key Tax Statistics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Annual Property Tax (McCone County) | $1,429 |
| Median Home Value (McCone County) | $211,600 |
| Effective Tax Rate (McCone County) | 0.68% |
| Montana State Average Tax Rate | 0.74% |
| Property Taxes as % of Median Household Income | 2.1% |
| Below Montana State Average | 25% |
| Below National Average | 28% |
Property taxes in McCone County represent roughly 2.1% of median household income, a figure that confirms housing costs remain manageable for most residents. The local assessment base combined with county, school district, and special district millage produces the final bill sent to property owners. Because Montana uses a uniform statewide methodology for valuation, McCone County’s mill levies are the primary driver of bill differences from one Montana county to another.
Key Rate Drivers in McCone County
- Countywide mill levies set during the annual budget process
- School district mill levies based on local funding requests
- Special district mill levies for fire, road, and other local services
- Statewide school equalization aid adjustments
Roles and Responsibilities of the McCone County Tax Assessor
The McCone County Assessor is responsible for discovering, listing, classifying, and valuing all taxable property within the county. The office maintains ownership transfers, tracks structural changes, processes applications for exemptions, and supplies valuation data used by the Treasurer to generate annual tax bills. County assessors also coordinate with the Montana Department of Revenue to ensure uniform appraisal standards are applied across the state.
Primary Functions of the Assessor Office
- Maintaining accurate ownership and parcel boundary records
- Performing cyclical revaluations under Montana’s two-year cycle
- Administering homestead, long-term rental, and agricultural classifications
- Processing appeal requests and scheduling formal hearings
- Reporting valuation rolls to the Department of Revenue and the County Treasurer
Taxpayers needing assistance with valuation questions, exemption applications, or classification changes should reach out to the assessor office directly. All records are public, and walk-in visitors can review parcel cards, sales data, and valuation worksheets during regular business hours.
Property Tax Payment Deadlines and Accepted Methods
McCone County property tax bills are issued annually and split into two installments. The first half of property taxes is due by November 30, according to the McCone County Treasurer’s Office. Bills that remain unpaid after the deadline begin accruing penalties and interest according to Montana state law, and continued nonpayment can result in a tax lien being filed against the property. Property owners should verify current-year deadlines with the Treasurer’s Office each year to avoid missing any updates.
McCone County Property Tax Schedule
| Installment | Due Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Half | November 30 | Confirmed by McCone County Treasurer’s Office |
| Second Half | Contact the Treasurer’s Office for the current second-half due date | Penalties begin accruing after the missed deadline |
Online payments offer the fastest verification and may be available through the county’s electronic portal, which accepts major credit and debit cards. A convenience fee may be charged by the payment processor for card transactions; property owners should confirm the current fee with the Treasurer’s Office. Property owners who prefer not to pay electronically can mail a check or visit the Treasurer’s Office in person to remit payment.
Recommended Payment Practices
- Pay at least seven days before the deadline to allow for mail processing
- Keep printed receipts and confirmation numbers for tax records
- Set calendar reminders for both installment due dates
- Contact the Treasurer immediately if a bill has not arrived by mid-October
- Verify the parcel number and tax year on every payment to prevent misapplication
Montana Property Tax Law Changes Affecting McCone County
Montana overhauled its residential property tax system during the 2026 legislative session, with the new tiered rate structure taking effect. Governor Greg Gianforte signed House Bill 231 and Senate Bill 542 into law in April 2026, restructuring the way property is classified, valued, and taxed across the state. The reforms aim to lower bills for primary homeowners and long-term landlords while shifting a larger share of the burden onto second homes and short-term rentals.
New Montana Tiered Tax Rate Structure
| Property Value Bracket | Tax Rate Applied | Property Type Most Affected |
|---|---|---|
| First $400,000 of value | 0.76% | Primary residences, long-term rentals |
| Next $1.1 million of value | 1.10% | Higher-value homes, commercial properties |
| Value above $1.5 million | 2.20% | Luxury homes, high-end commercial real estate |
The Reduced Property Tax Rate for primary residences and long-term rentals provides additional relief, with 2027 enrollment applications opening May 4, 2026. The Montana Department of Revenue extended the 2026 application deadline to March 20, 2026, in response to intermittent technical issues with the online portal. McCone County homeowners should review eligibility for the homestead rate and submit applications before the cutoff to lock in the lower tier for the upcoming tax year.
Key Changes McCone County Owners Should Know
- Primary residences receive the lowest tax bracket automatically once enrolled
- Long-term rentals qualify for a similar rate but must meet occupancy and lease length rules
- Second homes and short-term rentals are taxed at the higher commercial-tier rate
- The two-year revaluation cycle continues, but exemptions are now more generous
- Class four commercial property classifications have been adjusted to reflect the new tier structure
How to Appeal a McCone County Property Tax Assessment
Property owners who believe their McCone County assessment is inaccurate, inequitable, or based on incorrect data have the right to file a formal appeal. The Montana Department of Revenue provides a structured appeal process that begins with an informal review through the county assessor and escalates to the Montana Tax Appeal Board if the taxpayer remains unsatisfied. Property owners should contact the McCone County Assessor or the Montana Department of Revenue directly for the current appeal deadlines and procedures.
Step-by-Step Appeal Process in McCone County
- Review the Notice of Valuation for accuracy in land size, improvement size, and classification
- Gather supporting evidence such as recent appraisals, comparable sales, and photos
- Contact the McCone County Assessor to request an informal review
- File a formal appeal with the Montana Department of Revenue if unresolved
- Prepare for a hearing before the Montana Tax Appeal Board if escalation is needed
Appeals filed on procedural grounds, such as incorrect ownership data or misclassification, often resolve at the informal stage and result in corrected bills without further action. Disputes involving market value require stronger evidence, including licensed appraisals, income data, or documented sales of comparable properties. Taxpayers who prevail at the appeal stage receive a refund or credit applied to the next billing cycle.
Documents That Strengthen an Appeal
- Recent independent appraisal report
- Comparable sales data from the past 12 months
- Photos showing condition issues affecting value
- Income and expense statements for rental or commercial property
- Documentation of any data entry errors on the parcel card
McCone County Property Tax Exemptions and Relief Programs
Montana law provides several property tax exemptions that can reduce or eliminate the bill for qualifying owners, and McCone County residents have access to the full slate of state-authorized programs. The homestead exemption, long-term rental reduction, agricultural classification, and nonprofit exemptions each carry specific eligibility rules, deadlines, and documentation requirements. Property owners should review available programs annually because life changes such as retirement, disability, or property use can open new exemption opportunities.
Available McCone County Property Tax Exemptions Table
| Exemption Type | Eligibility Summary | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead Reduced Rate | Owner-occupied primary residence | Taxed at the lowest tiered rate |
| Long-Term Rental Reduction | Rentals leased 30+ days with no short-term use | Lower tiered rate for qualifying rentals |
| Agricultural Classification | Productive farmland or ranch land meeting use thresholds | Reduced valuation and lower effective rate |
| Nonprofit Exemption | 501(c)(3) organizations and qualifying religious properties | Full or partial property tax elimination |
| Disability and Veteran Relief | Qualifying disabled veterans and disabled homeowners | Reduced valuation or credit on tax bill |
Applications for homestead, long-term rental, and agricultural classifications are processed through the Montana Department of Revenue rather than the McCone County Assessor, though the local office can help taxpayers understand the forms. Nonprofit exemption applications are typically submitted to the county for county-level review. Deadlines vary by exemption type, and missing an application window can mean waiting a full year before relief kicks in.
Steps to Apply for McCone County Exemptions
- Download the correct form from the Montana Department of Revenue website
- Complete all sections and gather required supporting documents
- Submit the application before the published deadline for the applicable tax year
- Retain a copy of the submission and any confirmation receipts
- Follow up with the assessor or Department of Revenue if no response is received within 90 days
Accessing McCone County GIS Maps and Parcel Data
The McCone County tax map GIS system provides a visual layer over parcel data, allowing users to view property boundaries, road networks, school district lines, and special district boundaries. GIS tools are particularly useful for landowners trying to verify acreage, locate easements, or check whether a parcel falls inside a city limit that triggers additional taxation. The county’s GIS resources complement the textual data available through the assessor search portal.
Information Available Through McCone County GIS
- Parcel boundary lines and acreage measurements
- Owner names linked to each parcel
- Property classification codes and land use designations
- School district and special district boundary overlays
- Road right-of-way and easement indicators
GIS data is available through the McCone County website, and printed tax maps can be requested from the McCone County Clerk and Recorder for a copying fee. Property owners conducting detailed boundary research should consider hiring a licensed surveyor, since GIS lines are general representations and not legal surveys. The Clerk and Recorder also stores recorded plats, surveys, and subdivision maps that show the legal history of each parcel.
Property Tax Bill Lookup and Verification Process
Property tax bill lookup in McCone County is handled through the Treasurer’s Office and supported by records maintained at the McCone County Assessor. The lookup process lets owners confirm the amount owed, verify payment posting, check installment status, and identify any special assessments or fees added to the standard millage. The online lookup tool accepts parcel numbers and owner names, and produces a printable statement suitable for tax recordkeeping.
Information Displayed in a McCone County Tax Bill Lookup
- Current year tax amount and prior year balance
- Installment breakdown and payment status for each half
- Millage applied by each taxing jurisdiction
- Exemption credits and special district assessments
- Delinquent penalty and interest accruals, if any
Reading a McCone County tax bill requires identifying each millage line, since the total bill combines county, school, and special district levies into a single statement. Property owners who notice an unfamiliar charge or unexpected increase should request an itemized breakdown from the Treasurer’s Office before paying. The bill also lists the parcel number, legal description, and owner of record, which are useful for confirming the bill applies to the correct property.
Delinquent Property Tax Process and Lien Filing in McCone County
When a McCone County property tax bill goes unpaid past the deadline, the Treasurer’s Office begins the delinquency process, which includes penalty accrual, lien filing, and eventual tax sale eligibility. The state of Montana sets the penalty and interest rates, and counties apply them uniformly to keep collections consistent. Property owners facing financial hardship should contact the Treasurer’s Office early to explore payment plans, deferrals, or hardship deferral programs before the lien stage.
Stages of the McCone County Delinquency Process
- Penalty and interest begin accruing on the day after the missed deadline
- The Treasurer records a tax lien against the parcel with the Clerk and Recorder
- Notice of pending tax sale is published and mailed to the property owner
- The property may be offered at a public auction if the lien remains unpaid
- A redemption period follows the sale, allowing the original owner to recover the parcel
Tax lien filings appear in the public record, which can affect credit reports, refinancing eligibility, and title transfer processes. The McCone County Clerk and Recorder maintains a public index of all recorded liens, available for review during regular business hours. Property owners who redeem a tax lien must pay the original tax, all accrued penalties and interest, and any costs associated with the lien sale before the title transfers to the purchaser.
McCone County Property Tax Forms and Required Documents
McCone County property tax forms include assessment change requests, exemption applications, appeal petitions, and classification adjustments. Many forms are available in PDF format and can be downloaded directly from the county website or the Montana Department of Revenue. Property owners should verify they are using the current-year version of each form because outdated submissions are routinely rejected by the Department of Revenue. The 2026 Montana Reduced Property Tax enrollment forms have been released, and applications for the 2027 tax year open May 4, 2026.
Commonly Used McCone County Property Tax Forms
- Homestead Reduced Property Tax Rate application
- Long-Term Rental Reduced Property Tax Rate application
- Agricultural land classification application
- Property Tax Appeal petition
- Request for review of property record card
- Disabled veteran exemption application
PDF forms can be submitted by mail, in person, or through the Montana Department of Revenue online portal depending on the form type. Mailing submissions should include a self-addressed stamped envelope if a stamped copy of the receipt is desired. The McCone County Clerk and Recorder can direct taxpayers to the correct office for specific form filings and answer procedural questions about the submission process.
Agricultural and Commercial Property Tax Considerations
McCone County contains a significant amount of agricultural land, and the valuation of farmland and ranch parcels follows Montana’s productive value formula rather than market value. The agricultural classification is automatic for parcels meeting minimum use thresholds for crop production, livestock grazing, or other qualifying agricultural activities. Commercial property, including small businesses, equipment, and inventory, is taxed at a different classification and may be subject to the new tiered rate structure introduced in 2026.
Agricultural Property Tax Relief Rules in McCone County
- Parcels must generate income from farming, ranching, or approved agricultural use
- Minimum acreage and revenue thresholds apply under state guidelines
- Valuation is based on the productive capacity formula, not market sales
- Applications for agricultural classification are filed with the Department of Revenue
- Loss of qualifying use can trigger a rollback assessment and tax recapture
Commercial property owners should review the new tiered rate structure carefully because the brackets introduced in 2026 apply directly to commercial parcels. A business operating from a primary structure valued under $400,000 will fall into the lowest 0.76% bracket, while higher-value properties will see the higher rates. Equipment, inventory, and personal property used in business are still subject to the personal property tax system and require annual filing with the Department of Revenue.
McCone County Tax Revenue Reports and Budget Transparency
McCone County tax revenue reports are published annually as part of the county budget process and provide a clear picture of how property taxes support local services. The reports break down revenue by source, including property tax, intergovernmental aid, motor vehicle fees, and other local collections. Citizens can review the data to understand how mill levies translate into funding for schools, roads, public safety, and other essential services.
Where to Find McCone County Tax Revenue Data
- Annual budget documents posted on the McCone County website
- Montana Department of Revenue Biennial Report covering all counties
- State of Montana transparency portal for county-level revenue and spending
- Public meeting minutes from the McCone County Commission
- Annual financial audits filed with the State Auditor’s Office
The Montana Department of Revenue Biennial Report includes property tax data starting around page 239 and provides multi-year context for tax trends. For the most recent year-over-year comparisons, McCone County’s published annual report offers the clearest local picture. Taxpayers concerned about mill levy increases can review the Commission’s budget hearing records to see exactly how spending decisions affect future property tax bills.
Frequently Asked Questions About McCone County Property Records
Property records and tax bills in McCone County are stored across the Assessor, Treasurer, and Clerk and Recorder offices, and each office handles a different type of inquiry. Taxpayers who know which office to contact typically resolve issues much faster than those who call a general line. The following sections outline the most common records and how to access them through the right channel.
How to Find McCone County Land Tax History
Land tax history in McCone County is available through the Treasurer’s Office and the McCone County Clerk and Recorder. Historical tax payments, delinquencies, and lien filings are all part of the public record. Property owners can request a multi-year payment history by parcel number, and the Treasurer’s Office typically provides a written printout showing each year’s taxes, payments, penalties, and remaining balance.
The Clerk and Recorder maintains historical documents including recorded deeds, mortgages, easements, and tax liens dating back many decades. Researchers and title companies frequently pull these records to verify ownership chains and identify any unresolved liens. The recording fees and copy charges vary by document type, and the office can quote exact fees on request.
How to Request a McCone County Property Tax Refund
Refund requests in McCone County are typically filed with the Treasurer’s Office and require documentation showing that an overpayment was made. Common refund situations include duplicate payments, exemption credits applied after the original payment, and successful appeal adjustments. Refund requests should include the parcel number, tax year, amount paid, amount owed, and a clear explanation of the error.
Once a refund request is filed, the Treasurer’s Office verifies the data and either issues a check or applies the credit to the next tax bill. Processing times vary, but most refunds are resolved within a reasonable timeframe when the documentation is complete. Taxpayers can speed up the process by attaching a copy of the original payment receipt and the corrected tax bill from the assessor.
Contact, Local Details, and Map
McCone County Treasurer’s Office
Department Name: McCone County Treasurer’s Office / Superintendent of Schools
Main Phone: 406-485-3590
Note: For property tax payments, billing inquiries, and delinquency questions, contact the Treasurer’s Office at the number above.
McCone County Clerk and Recorder
Department Name: McCone County Clerk and Recorder
Main Phone: 406-485-3505
Physical Address: 1004 C Ave, Circle, MT 59215
Note: The Clerk and Recorder handles recorded documents, liens, deeds, mortgages, and related public records.
McCone County Assessor
Department Name: McCone County Assessor
Main Phone: Contact information for the McCone County Assessor should be verified through the official county directory.
Note: For property valuations, classification, exemption applications, and assessment appeals, contact the McCone County Assessor. The office coordinates with the Montana Department of Revenue for statewide appraisal standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
McCone property tax matters affect every landowner in Circle and surrounding areas. Knowing where to find the tax bill, how to pay on time, and how to challenge an assessment can save money and avoid penalties. The county assessor office, the treasurer’s payment portal, and the clerk’s records are all public resources that help residents stay on top of their obligations.
How can I look up my McCone property tax bill online?
Visit the McCone County assessor portal at https://mcconecountymt.gov. Enter your parcel number, owner name, or street address in the search field. The system displays the current bill, assessed value, and any outstanding balances. If you cannot locate the record, call the assessor office at (406) 485-3565 for assistance.
What is the deadline to pay the 2026 McCone property tax?
The first half of the tax bill is due by November 30. The second half must be paid by February 28 of the following year. Payments submitted after these dates may incur interest. Use the online portal or call the treasurer’s office to confirm the exact due date for your parcel.
How do I appeal a McCone County property tax assessment?
File an appeal within 30 days of receiving the assessment notice. Download the appeal form from the assessor’s website or request a paper copy by calling (406) 485-3565. Complete the form, attach supporting evidence such as recent sales data, then submit it to the assessor’s office at 1004 C Avenue, Circle, MT 59215. The board will schedule a hearing and issue a decision.
Are there exemptions for agricultural land in McCone County?
Yes. Owners of qualifying farmland may claim the agricultural use exemption, which reduces the assessed value to the land’s productive use. To apply, complete the exemption application found on the assessor’s website and provide proof of active farming, such as a lease or crop receipt. Submit the package before the assessment deadline to receive the reduction for that tax year.
What contact information is available for the McCone tax collector?
The McCone County treasurer’s office handles tax collection. Phone: (406) 485-3590. Email inquiries are routed through the county’s main contact page. The office is located at 1004 C Avenue, Circle, MT 59215. Call during regular business hours for payment options, lien information, or to request a payment plan.