Property Tax Due Dates in Colorado

Colorado property taxes are administered at the county level. Property is assessed at its actual value (market value) as determined by the county assessor. Colorado conducts countywide reassessments every two years (odd years), meaning values are updated on a two-year cycle. Colorado has recently enacted significant property tax relief legislation to address rapid home value appreciation. The residential assessment rate — the percentage of market value that is taxable — has been reduced and is subject to legislative adjustment. Always confirm the current assessment rate with your county assessor, as it may change year to year.

Colorado property taxes for the prior year are due in the current year. You have two options: Option 1 (single payment): Pay the full amount by April 30. Option 2 (two installments): Pay the first half by February 28, and the second half by June 15. A penalty of 1% per month applies to late payments. Taxes remaining unpaid for several years can result in a tax lien sale. Most Colorado counties offer online payment through the county treasurer's website. Payment by mail and in person is also available.

Colorado offers several exemption programs: Senior Homestead Exemption — Qualifying homeowners who are 65 or older and have owned their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years may receive a 50% exemption on the first $200,000 of actual value. This is one of the more generous senior programs in the western states. Apply with your county assessor by July 15. Disabled Veterans Exemption — Veterans with a 100% permanent service-connected disability receive the same 50% exemption on the first $200,000 of value, regardless of age. Surviving spouses may continue to receive the exemption. Property Tax Deferral — Low- to moderate-income homeowners (including seniors) may be able to defer property taxes as a loan against the property, payable when the home is sold.

Colorado property tax appeals proceed through the county assessor's office and then the county Board of Equalization: Notice of Valuation: Sent by May 1 in reassessment years (odd years) and June 1 in non-reassessment years. Deadline: Appeal to the county assessor by June 1 in reassessment years or July 1 in other years. The assessor has until June 15 (or July 15) to respond. If unsatisfied: Appeal to the county Board of Equalization (CBOE) within 30 days of the assessor's response. If still unsatisfied, appeal to the Board of Assessment Appeals (BAA), a district court, or binding arbitration within 30 days.