March 1, 2026 DEADLINE FOR REDUCED PROPERTY TAX RATES (primary residence AND long-term rental properties)
Here’s what you need to know:
Rental Properties need to be enrolled: If you do not enroll your rental, property taxes will double in November. YOU DO NOT GET THE TAX BREAK!
Automatic Enrollment for Current Homeowners: If you claimed a property tax rebate last year, you’ll be automatically enrolled for the new homestead reduced tax rate in 2026, as long as you still own and live in your home.
Who Qualifies: These benefits apply if your property is your principal residence, or if you own long-term rental properties rented for at least 28 days per tenant and for seven or more months each year.
Enrollment Deadline & Requirements: For those not currently enrolled, new applications open December 1, 2025 and close March 1, 2026. It’s important to ensure your property qualifies and to submit the necessary paperwork on time.
If not enrolled it is assumed by the State of Montana that the home is a second home or VRBO rental and your taxes will go to the 1.90% tax rate, doubling your property taxes November 2026. Depending on when you purchased your home you may need to enroll in December 2026.
Starting with the 2026 tax year, Montana is introducing changes to property tax rates for homes used as primary residences (homesteads) and for some long-term rental properties. These changes are designed to provide tax relief and make homeownership and property investment more affordable for you and many others in our community.
For more details, you can also visit the Montana Department of Revenue’s official page: https://revenue.mt.gov/property/property-tax-changes/homesteads-and-long-term-rentals