MISSION STATEMENT

The role of the Assessor is to estimate (appraise or assess) the value of all taxable property.  It is our mission to serve the citizens of Cowlitz County by achieving accuracy, equity, and fairness in the estimation of value.

• To achieve accuracy, it is our responsibility to neither under nor overestimate the value of property.

• To achieve equity, it is our responsibility to see that all properties are assessed in a similar manner.

• To achieve fairness, it is our responsibility to ensure that each owner's share of the total property tax is the same as his or her share of the total value of property.

  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What kinds of property are taxable?

• How is the value of real property determined?

• How is the value of personal property determined?

• How am I notified of my property's value?

• Is property assessed at its full value?

• What determines the amount of property tax?

• How are property tax levies established?

• What are the legal limitations on property taxes?

• What happens if levy limits are exceeded?

• How am I notified of the amount of property taxes I must pay?

• How do I qualify for property tax exemptions or deferral?

• What other types of exemptions are available?

• What other kinds of property are exempt?

• If I move, where do I send my address change?

• How do I question or appeal the value placed on my property?

• How do I obtain other information and assistance?

GOALS

• Based on adherence to professional standards and in accordance with Washington State Law, we are committed to creating a quality product.

• To provide training and technology that will enable employees to achieve excellence.

• To provide courteous, efficient, and outstanding service to all customers.

This page was last updated on Thursday, August 06, 2009

Visitors since November 2002