Property taxes are one of the largest ongoing costs of owning a home in Dane County. Understanding how they’re calculated and billed makes them easier to plan for and, when necessary, to challenge.
Assessments are set as of January 1
Your municipality’s assessor values your property as of January 1 each year. The assessed value, multiplied by the local tax rate, determines your bill. Assessment levels can differ from market value, so compare your assessment with similar homes rather than with a recent sale price alone.
Bills arrive in December
Wisconsin property tax bills are typically mailed in December. Many municipalities allow you to pay in installments, with the first installment generally due by January 31 and the balance due later in the year. Check your bill for your municipality’s exact schedule.
Credits that lower your bill
- The Lottery and Gaming Credit applies to a home that is your primary residence as of January 1. If it isn’t on your bill, you can apply through your municipality.
- The school levy and first dollar credits are applied automatically on most bills.
How to question an assessment
If you believe your assessment is too high, start by talking with the assessor during your municipality’s open book period. If that doesn’t resolve it, you can file an objection with the Board of Review, which has strict filing deadlines.
What buyers should know
Taxes are paid in arrears in Wisconsin, so the seller typically credits the buyer at closing for their share of the current year. When comparing homes, look at the most recent tax bill and remember that a sale can lead to a new assessment. See buyer closing costs in Wisconsin for how proration works.
Comparing tax rates between towns is part of choosing where to live. Our community guides cover the trade-offs, and our buyer’s guide explains the rest of the process.