When Are Colorado Property Taxes Due? 2026 Dates, Rates & Exemptions

Colorado homeowners face two critical property tax payment deadlines each year: April 30 and June 15 (split payment), or a single payment by February 28. With an effective state tax rate of 0.51% and homestead exemptions available through your county assessor, understanding your payment schedule and potential deductions can save you thousands in penalties and help you budget accurately.

When Are Colorado Property Taxes Due?

Colorado's property tax system uses a semi-annual payment schedule. Homeowners can pay in two installments—April 30 for the first half and June 15 for the second half—or elect to pay the full year's amount by February 28. The specific deadline depends on your county, so confirming with your county treasurer's office is essential to avoid late fees.

For a nationwide overview of payment schedules, see our guide to when property taxes are due.

Schedule	Due Date	Notes
First installment	April 30	Half of annual property tax bill
Second installment	June 15	Remaining half of annual property tax bill
Single payment option	February 28	Full-year payment (check county availability)

Not all Colorado counties offer the February 28 single-payment option, so verify with your county assessor before planning around that date. Missing either April 30 or June 15 triggers late penalties and potential property liens.

Colorado Property Tax Rates

Colorado's effective property tax rate is 0.51%, meaning a homeowner with a $580,000 home (the state average) would owe approximately $2,958 annually in property taxes. However, rates vary significantly by county—Denver, Boulder, and rural mountain counties each apply different mill levies based on local school districts, municipal services, and special assessments.

Your actual tax bill depends on your county's assessed valuation and local mill levy. To estimate your specific liability, contact your county assessor or use our free Colorado mortgage calculator to factor property taxes into your total housing payment.

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Colorado Property Tax Exemptions

Homestead, senior, and veteran exemptions are available in Colorado, but eligibility and benefit amounts vary by county. The homestead exemption typically provides a reduction in assessed valuation for primary residences, while senior exemptions (usually age 65+) and veteran exemptions offer additional property tax relief.

To claim any exemption, file an application with your county assessor's office. Deadlines vary—many counties require applications by June 1 for the next tax year. Senior and veteran exemptions may require proof of age, military service, or disability status. Since exemption rules differ across Colorado's 64 counties, review your county's specific property tax exemptions through your assessor's website or by calling directly.

How to Pay Colorado Property Taxes

Most Colorado homeowners pay through their county treasurer's office, either online, by mail, or in person. Many counties now offer automatic payment plans and online bill-pay systems. Your property tax bill (assessment notice) arrives in late summer or fall and specifies the payment address, due dates, and available payment methods for your specific county.

If you have a mortgage, your lender may collect property taxes through an escrow account as part of your monthly payment. This ensures taxes are paid on time and protects the lender's interest in your home. Check your mortgage statement to see if property taxes are escrowed.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Missing the April 30 or June 15 deadline in Colorado triggers late penalties of 1–2% per month, compounding until the full balance is paid. If property taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, Colorado law allows the county to file a tax lien against your property, potentially leading to a tax deed sale and loss of ownership.

Even a single missed payment can damage your credit and complicate mortgage refinancing. If you anticipate difficulty meeting a deadline, contact your county treasurer immediately—many offices offer payment plans or hardship waivers for qualified homeowners.

Property Taxes and Your Mortgage Payment

If you financed your home with a mortgage, property taxes are likely included in your PITI payment (Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance). Your lender estimates annual property taxes and divides the amount into your monthly mortgage payment, holding the funds in an escrow account to pay the county on your behalf.

Understanding your tax liability helps you estimate your true housing cost. Use our Colorado mortgage calculator to see how property taxes affect your monthly payment and long-term affordability. As home values and mill levies change, your escrow amount may adjust, increasing or decreasing your monthly payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I appeal my property tax assessment in Colorado?
A: Yes. Colorado requires counties to provide a written assessment and appeal process. Most counties allow appeals within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. File an appeal with your county assessor's office and request a hearing if you believe your home's valuation is incorrect. Documentation like recent appraisals or comparable sales strengthens your case. Contact your county assessor for appeal deadlines and forms.

Q: Do Colorado property taxes increase every year?
A: Colorado property taxes can increase if your home's assessed valuation rises or the mill levy changes. Homeowners typically see annual increases tied to real estate appreciation and local budget needs. Some years see larger jumps if a county revalues all properties. Senior and veteran exemptions may provide relief. Check your county assessor's website for historical rate trends and upcoming mill levy elections.

Q: What's the difference between assessed value and market value?
A: Market value is what your home would sell for today; assessed value is what the county uses for tax calculations. Colorado counties reassess properties every two years, and assessed values typically lag behind market values. Assessed value multiplied by the county's mill levy determines your tax bill. If you believe the assessment significantly undervalues your home, appeal within the required timeframe.

Q: How do I set up automatic property tax payments in Colorado?
A: Contact your county treasurer's office to enroll in automatic payment plans. Many counties allow monthly or semi-annual automatic transfers from your checking or savings account. If your taxes are escrowed through your mortgage, your lender handles payments automatically. Set calendar reminders for April 30 and June 15 as backups, even with automatic payments, to confirm timely processing.

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Ready to see how Colorado property taxes fit into your overall housing budget? Use our free Colorado mortgage calculator to estimate your complete monthly payment, including property taxes, insurance, and principal. Understanding all costs upfront helps you make confident homeownership decisions.