In New Hampshire, property taxes are typically billed twice a year. Here’s how the process works:
First Payment:
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Estimated Bill: The first bill is an estimate based on one half of the previous year’s total tax. This bill is usually mailed out near the end of May.
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Due Date: The first payment is generally due by July 1st.
Second Payment:
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Final Bill: The second bill is calculated using the new tax rate set in the fall by the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration. This bill reflects the actual tax amount for the year, minus any payments made on the first bill.
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Due Date: The second payment is typically due no sooner than December 1st.
Example:
2023 tax bill $1,000, 2024 tax bill $1,200
In June of 2024 you got a tax bill that was HALF of the full amount you owed in 2023, or $500. But you actually owe $1,200 for 2024 so the tax bill you get in November 2024 is the total amount owed in 2023 ($1,200) less what you paid in June, $500. So, your bill will be for $1,200 less $500, or $700. So, it will look like your tax bill increased by 40% ($700/$500) when it actually increased 20% ($1,200/$1,000)