Tax relief and valuation review
A homestead exemption, senior-relief program, or valuation protest can change the amount a homeowner owes—but only if the filing reaches the right local office in the correct window. Use the verified county guidance below as your working checklist, then confirm the current form and deadline with Montana Department of Revenue Property Assessment Division — Havre Field Office / Blaine County Treasurer.
Relief programs
The filing guidance for this county is: The 2026 homestead/long-term-rental reduced-rate enrollment deadline was March 20, 2026. The 2027 enrollment window is May 4, 2026–March 1, 2027. Use the official form or application channel, provide the residence and ownership documentation requested, and keep a copy of the submission.
Open homestead applicationMontana Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit: eligible Montana residents age 62+ with at least nine months of Montana residency, six months owning/renting a home, and total household income under $45,000 may claim a refundable credit up to $1,150. Montana also lists income-based Property Tax Assistance and Disabled Veteran Assistance programs. See https://revenue.mt.gov/property/property-tax-help/montana-elderly-homeowner-renter-credit.
No county-specific annual valuation cap was verified. Montana residential property is valued every two years at 100% of market value; 2026 state classification/rate rules apply, including the reduced homestead tiered rates, while local treasurers apply locally set mill levies and special assessments.
Appealing an assessment
Use the valuation notice and the county’s published protest guidance to determine the last day to file. Do not assume the payment deadline controls the appeal.
Gather comparable sales, photographs, repair records, appraisal evidence, property characteristics, and any documentation that explains why the assessed value is incorrect.
Submit through the official channel, save the confirmation, and attend the board or review hearing if one is scheduled. An appraiser or attorney can help evaluate evidence when the value or stakes are substantial.
The verified protest guidance for this county is: For the 2025–2026 valuation cycle, file Form AB-26 or appeal to the county Tax Appeal Board within 30 days of the Department of Revenue classification/appraisal notice; late informal review was available through June 1, 2026. A written protest must also be filed with the county treasurer and disputed taxes paid under protest by the tax due date. If the language is not a specific calendar date, contact the office promptly for the current notice and board-review schedule.