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Moving to Brown County, Indiana from out of state means navigating a property tax system that works differently than many other states in the country. Your property taxes get calculated based on assessed value, paid in arrears, and split between multiple local entities including the county, township, school district, and sometimes special districts.
The good news? Brown County's property tax rates are relatively moderate compared to other Indiana counties, and understanding the system helps you budget accurately from day one.
Brown County uses a formula that multiplies your property's assessed value by the local tax rate. The county assessor determines your home's assessed value, which should equal about 100% of its true market value as of the assessment date.
Your total tax rate combines several different rates:
Most Brown County homeowners pay between $800 and $2,500 annually in property taxes, depending on home value and location within the county.
Property taxes get prorated between you and the seller based on the closing date. Since Indiana property taxes are paid in arrears (meaning you pay this year for last year's taxes), the calculation works backward from your closing date.
Here's what typically happens at closing:
Your title company calculates these prorations using the most recent tax bill available, though final amounts may vary slightly when actual bills arrive.
Brown County follows Indiana's standard property tax schedule with two payment dates each year. Understanding this timing helps you plan your budget and avoid late fees.
Payment dates:
If either date falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date extends to the next business day. Brown County charges a 10% penalty on late payments.
You can pay online through the Brown County Treasurer's website, by mail, or in person at the courthouse in Nashville. Many homeowners set up automatic payments or pay through their mortgage escrow account.
Your first year of Brown County property taxes involves some unique timing considerations. Since you're entering mid-cycle, your initial payments may feel confusing compared to future years.
What to expect in year one:
Most Brown County residents budget about $150-400 monthly for property taxes, depending on home value. Your lender's escrow analysis will provide a more precise estimate based on your specific property.
Your annual tax statement breaks down exactly where your money goes and how your tax bill was calculated. Brown County tax statements arrive in late February or early March for the previous year's taxes.
Key sections to review include:
Brown County homeowners may qualify for the homestead deduction, which can reduce your tax bill by several hundred dollars annually. You must apply for this deduction by December 31st of the year you purchase your home.
Brown County reassesses properties periodically, and your tax bill can change based on market conditions, local government budgets, and property improvements you make.
Your taxes might increase if you add a deck, finish a basement, or make other improvements that add value to your property. The county assessor typically reviews building permits and may adjust your assessment accordingly.
Keep records of your property tax payments for income tax purposes, especially if you itemize deductions. Property taxes paid on your primary residence are generally deductible on your federal and Indiana state tax returns.
Brown County property taxes are due twice a year: May 10th for the first installment and November 10th for the second installment. Both payments are made in arrears, meaning you're paying for the previous year's taxes, and a 10% penalty applies to late payments.
Most Brown County residents should budget approximately $150-400 per month for property taxes, depending on their home's value and location. Annual property tax bills typically range from $800 to $2,500 for most homeowners in the county.
The homestead deduction is a tax credit that can reduce your Brown County property tax bill by several hundred dollars annually. You must apply for this deduction by December 31st of the year you purchase your home to qualify.
At closing, the seller pays property taxes from the last installment through the closing date, and you become responsible starting the day after closing. Your title company calculates these prorations using the most recent tax bill, and your lender typically collects 2-3 months of estimated taxes upfront for escrow.
Yes, improvements like adding a deck or finishing a basement can increase your property taxes because they add value to your property. The county assessor typically reviews building permits and may adjust your assessed value accordingly, which would increase your tax bill.