Property Taxes in Maryland: Rates, Exemptions, and How They Work (2026)
TL;DR
Maryland property taxes are assessed at 100% of market value by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Properties are reassessed on a 3-year cycle, with value changes phased in over 3 years. The Homestead Tax Credit caps annual assessment increases at 10% (or lower if your county has adopted a lower cap). The Homeowners' Tax Credit provides relief based on income. Average effective rate is about 0.99%. Appeal to SDAT within 45 days of the assessment notice.
Triennial Assessment
SDAT reassesses all property every 3 years on a rotating schedule. Any increase is phased in equally over 3 years, not applied all at once. This smooths out the impact of rising values.
Homestead Tax Credit
Maryland's Homestead Tax Credit limits annual assessment increases to a maximum of 10% for homeowners. Many counties and municipalities have adopted lower caps:
| Jurisdiction | Cap |
|---|---|
| State default | 10% |
| Baltimore County | 4% |
| Montgomery County | 10% |
| Prince George's County | 2% |
| Baltimore City | 4% |
You must apply for the Homestead Credit. It is not automatic.
Homeowners' Tax Credit
Maryland offers an income-based tax credit for homeowners whose property taxes exceed a percentage of their gross income. The credit applies to the state portion of taxes. Many counties offer a supplemental credit on top of the state credit.
Other Exemptions
| Program | Benefit | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Tax Credit | Varies by county | Seniors 65+, income limits vary |
| Disabled Veterans | Full or partial exemption | Veterans with 100% disability |
| Blind Persons | $15,000 off assessed value | Legally blind homeowners |
Appeal Process
- File with SDAT: Within 45 days of the assessment notice
- Supervisor review: SDAT supervisor reviews the assessment
- Property Tax Assessment Appeal Board: Appeal within 30 days of supervisor's decision
- Maryland Tax Court: Further appeal within 30 days
Use our free property tax analyzer to check your Maryland assessment, especially if you are in a reassessment year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I know about property taxes in maryland: rates, exemptions, and how they work (2026)?
Maryland property taxes are assessed at 100% of market value by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Properties are reassessed on a 3-year cycle, with value changes phased in over 3 years. The Homestead Tax Credit caps annual assessment increases at 10% (or lower if your county has adopted a lower cap).
What should I know about triennial assessment?
SDAT reassesses all property every 3 years on a rotating schedule. Any increase is phased in equally over 3 years, not applied all at once. This smooths out the impact of rising values.
What should I know about homestead tax credit?
Maryland's Homestead Tax Credit limits annual assessment increases to a maximum of 10% for homeowners. Many counties and municipalities have adopted lower caps:
What should I know about homeowners' tax credit?
Maryland offers an income-based tax credit for homeowners whose property taxes exceed a percentage of their gross income. The credit applies to the state portion of taxes. Many counties offer a supplemental credit on top of the state credit.
What is the process for appeal process?
Use our free property tax analyzer to check your Maryland assessment, especially if you are in a reassessment year.