Are Real Estate Taxes The Same As Property Taxes in Maryland?

Q: Are real estate taxes the same as property taxes?

A: In Maryland, real estate taxes (or real property taxes) are a subcategory of property taxes. Real estate taxes apply exclusively to land and permanent structures (like your home), while “property taxes” can also include personal property taxes on movable assets like cars, boats, or business equipment.

Three Key details to know to understand Maryland real estate taxes and property taxes

1. Assessment: Real property is assessed every three years by the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT).
2. Billing: Property tax bills are generated locally and include State, county, and municipal taxes. They are generally mailed in July and due by September 30, though semiannual payment options exist for owner-occupied homes.
3. Rates: Maryland’s average effective rate is ~0.95%, but it varies heavily by county.

For more information on real estate taxes for a specific property, go to Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation at SDAT.DAT.Maryland.gov