Property taxes are a significant financial consideration for homeowners in Chesapeake, Virginia. In 2023, the average effective property tax rate in Chesapeake was 1.01% (1.04% in 2022) translating to an average payment of $1.01 for every $100 of assessed property value. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Chesapeake, VA Property Taxes, providing you with valuable insights and practical information.
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Property Assessed Value
If you want to know how much your property is worth in Chesapeake, VA, it’s easy to find out. You can do it in three simple ways:
Online:
On the City of Chesapeake website, navigate to the ‘Your Property’ section. Then, click on ‘Property Information Database.’ Next, type in your property’s address or account number in the search bar.
By phone:
If you’d rather talk to someone, you can call the City of Chesapeake Real Estate Assessor’s Office at 757-382-6235.
In person:
For a face-to-face experience, visit the City of Chesapeake Real Estate Assessor’s Office at 306 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, VA 23322.
Your property’s assessed value will be listed on your property tax bill or on the City of Chesapeake website.
Challenging Your Property’s Assessed Value
If you think your property is valued too high, you can try to get it changed. Here’s how:
- Fill Out a Form: Start by completing a Property Assessment Challenge Form. This is your way of officially asking for a reassessment.
- Send it In: Give the filled-out form to the City of Chesapeake Real Estate Assessor’s Office.
- Review: They’ll look at your request and the proof you provide. If they agree that your property is worth less than they thought, they might change the value.
- Appeal: If you still don’t agree with their decision, you can ask the Chesapeake City Council to review it.
Please note that the assessed value of your property may not be the same as the market value of your property. The assessed value is determined by the City of Chesapeake and is used to calculate your property tax bill. The market value of your property is determined by the current real estate market and is what you could expect to sell your property for.
Understanding Chesapeake, VA Property Tax Rates
When it comes to property taxes in Chesapeake, VA, it’s essential to know the rates for different types of properties. These rates determine how much you’ll owe in taxes based on the assessed value of your property. Here’s a breakdown of the property tax rates in Chesapeake:
| Property Type | Tax Rate (as Percentage) |
| Real Estate Tax (non-mosquito controlled) | 1.04% |
| Real Estate Tax (mosquito controlled) | 1.05% |
| Automobiles/Trucks/Trailers/Motorcycles | 4.08% |
| Recreation Vehicles (Motor Homes/Camping Trailers) | 1.58% |
| Aircraft | 0.58% |
| Boats | 0.09% |
| Business Property (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) | 4.08% |
| Machinery & Tools (Manufacturers) | 3.20% |
These percentages represent the portion of your property’s assessed value that you’ll owe in taxes, based on its category. It’s essential to be aware of these rates to calculate your tax obligations accurately in Chesapeake, VA.
Real Estate Taxes In Chesapeake, Va
The City of Chesapeake has the authority to levy real estate taxes, which are calculated based on the assessed value of your property. This assessed value is typically lower than the market value of your home.
Real estate taxes are due in four quarterly installments, making budgeting more manageable for homeowners. The due dates are as follows:
- September 30
- December 31
- March 31
- June 5
Personal Property Taxes in Chesapeake, Va
In addition to real estate taxes, Chesapeake also assesses personal property taxes. These taxes are based on the value of tangible assets such as:
- Automobiles
- Trucks
- Recreational vehicles
- Mobile homes
- Motorcycles
- Trailers
- Watercraft
- Aircraft
- Business furniture
- Fixtures
- Equipment
- Machinery and tools used in the manufacturing process
The deadline for personal property tax payments is June 5th. As mentioned earlier, you can locate the assessed value of your property on your personal property tax bill.
Exemptions and Relief Programs
Chesapeake offers several exemptions and relief programs to assist homeowners with their property taxes. These programs include:
- Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners who are 65 years old or older and have an annual income of $55,000 or less may be eligible for a reduction in their property taxes.
- Disability Exemption: Homeowners who are permanently disabled and have an annual income of $25,000 or less may be eligible for a reduction in their property taxes.
- Homestead Exemption: Homeowners may be eligible for a reduction in their property taxes on their primary residence.
Military Property Tax Exemptions in Chesapeake, VA
Military members and veterans may be eligible for a number of property tax exemptions and benefits in Chesapeake, VA.
Active Duty Military
Active duty military members who are stationed in Chesapeake, VA but maintain a legal residency in another state are exempt from paying personal property taxes on their vehicles. To claim this exemption, military members must provide the City of Chesapeake with a copy of their current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES).
Disabled Veterans
Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses may be eligible for a variety of property tax exemptions and benefits in Chesapeake, VA. These exemptions include:
- Real Estate Tax Exemption: Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses may be eligible for a real estate tax exemption on their primary residence. To qualify for this exemption, the veteran must have a service-connected disability of 100% or more.
- Personal Property Tax Exemption: Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses may be eligible for a personal property tax exemption on one vehicle. To qualify for this exemption, the veteran must have a service-connected disability of 50% or more.
To apply for any of these exemptions, disabled veterans and their surviving spouses must contact the City of Chesapeake Real Estate Assessor’s Office.
Calculating Chesapeake Property Tax
To calculate your Chesapeake property tax, you need two key pieces of information: your property’s assessed value and the city’s tax rate. As we have mentioned above You can find your property’s assessed value on your tax bill or online at the City of Chesapeake website . The city’s tax rate is set by the Chesapeake City Council each year.
Here’s simple formula to calculate your property tax:
Property Tax = Assessed Value x Tax Rate
For example, if your property’s assessed value is $300,000 and the city’s tax rate is 1.01%, your property tax would be $3,330.
Property Tax Payment Options in Chesapeake, VA
Now that you understand how property taxes work in Chesapeake, it’s essential to know how to make your payments conveniently. Chesapeake offers 3 payment options:
Online Payment:
- Visit the City of Chesapeake website.
- Click on the “Online Payments” tab.
- Select “Property Tax.”
- Enter your account number and PIN.
- Choose your preferred payment method.
- Complete the transaction to pay your taxes securely.
Payment by Mail:
- Write a check or money order payable to the City of Chesapeake Treasurer.
- Include your account number on the check or money order for accurate processing.
- Mail your payment to the following address:
City of Chesapeake Treasurer
P.O. Box 3237
Chesapeake, VA 23327Ensure your payment is sent well in advance of the due date to allow for processing time.
In-Person Payment:
You have the option to make payments in person at the City Treasurer’s Office, conveniently located at:
City Treasurer’s Office 306 Cedar Road Chesapeake, VA 23322
The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This provides flexibility for those who prefer face-to-face interactions and support when handling their property tax payments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I fail to pay my property taxes?
Failure to pay property taxes can result in the city placing a lien on your property and, ultimately, foreclosure.
What is a property tax lien?
A property tax lien is a legal claim the city holds on your property if you fail to pay property taxes. It can lead to the sale of your property to cover the tax debt.
What is property tax foreclosure?
Property tax foreclosure is when the city takes ownership of your property and sells it to settle your outstanding property tax debt, usually after an extended period of non-payment.
Can I appeal my property tax assessment?
Yes, you can appeal your property tax assessment by submitting a Property Assessment Challenge Form to the City of Chesapeake Real Estate Assessor’s Office.
Conclusion
Property taxes are a substantial financial consideration for homeowners in Chesapeake, VA. However, the city provides various relief programs and payment options to ease the burden. Whether you choose to pay online, by mail, or in person, understanding the intricacies of Chesapeake’s property tax system empowers you to manage your finances effectively.
For more information and specific details, please visit the City of Chesapeake website (cityofchesapeake.net).
Feel free to share this valuable information with friends and family who might also find it helpful in navigating the world of property taxes in Chesapeake. Together, we can make informed financial decisions and ensure that everyone benefits from the available relief programs and payment options.
