Property taxes in Bothell can feel confusing, especially when one city spans two counties. You want a clear picture of what you owe, when to pay, and where to verify the numbers. This guide breaks down how your bill is set, how to run your own estimate, where to find parcel details online, key deadlines, and common relief programs. Let’s dive in.
How Bothell property taxes work
Bothell sits in both King County and Snohomish County. Your parcel follows the rules and systems of the county it sits in. Start by finding your parcel on the King County Department of Assessments if you are in King County, or the Snohomish County Assessor if you are in Snohomish County.
Washington uses annual assessments. The county assessor sets your assessed value based on the market as of January 1 of the assessment year using mass-appraisal methods. Your assessed value can differ from your recent sale price because of timing, adjustments, and any exemptions. For a helpful overview, review the Washington Department of Revenue’s property tax basics.
What makes up your tax bill
Your bill is a mix of levies from several taxing districts. These often include the city, county, school district, fire district, library, and more. Voter-approved levies or bonds can be added on top and can change your total.
There is no single statewide property tax rate. Each parcel’s total levy rate depends on the exact set of taxing districts it belongs to. That’s why two Bothell homes can have different total rates even if they are blocks apart.
Calculate a quick estimate
You can estimate your taxes with a simple formula most counties use.
- Tax = (Assessed value ÷ 1,000) × Total levy rate
Levy rates are reported as dollars per $1,000 of assessed value. To estimate:
- Find your assessed value on the King County Department of Assessments or the Snohomish County Assessor.
- Find your parcel’s total levy rate on your county assessor or treasurer site.
- Plug both into the formula above to get your estimate.
Your official bill comes from your county treasurer. Use your estimate for planning, then confirm with the posted statement.
Find your parcel information
Use these steps to see your assessed value, levy rate, and tax history:
- Confirm your parcel’s county by using the county property search by address.
- Open your parcel on the county assessor site to view assessed value, exemptions, and taxing districts: King County Department of Assessments or Snohomish County Assessor.
- Check your tax statements, due dates, and payment options on the treasurer site: King County Treasurer or Snohomish County Treasurer.
- If you need an estimate before the bill posts, use your assessed value and total levy rate with the calculation above.
Key dates, billing, and payments
In Washington, property taxes are commonly due in two installments each year, typically at the end of April and the end of October. Counties mail or post bills and offer online payment options. Always confirm the current-year dates on the King County Treasurer or Snohomish County Treasurer page.
Penalties and interest apply if you pay late. If you are running behind, contact your county treasurer right away to understand costs and ask about payment options.
Appeal your assessed value
If you believe your assessed value is incorrect, act quickly after receiving your notice.
- Start with an informal review. Contact your county assessor to discuss sales, condition, or other details.
- If needed, file a formal appeal with the county’s board by the deadline that applies to your notice. Filing windows and forms vary by county, so follow the instructions on the assessor’s site: King County Department of Assessments or Snohomish County Assessor.
For legal details and statewide rules, you can also consult the Revised Code of Washington.
Exemptions and deferrals
You may qualify for programs that reduce or defer taxes. Common options include:
- Senior or disabled person exemptions or deferrals
- Disabled veteran exemptions
- Other program-based exemptions for qualifying uses
Eligibility, income thresholds, and application steps vary by county and program. Review the Washington Department of Revenue for an overview and contact your county assessor for forms and guidance.
Smart moves for buyers and owners
- New buyers: ask for the parcel number and recent tax bills before closing so you understand true annual costs.
- When you receive an assessment notice: review it promptly and call the assessor if anything looks off.
- If taxes strain your budget: check eligibility for exemption or deferral programs and ask the treasurer about payment options.
- When budgeting: remember that voter-approved levies can change future bills, so watch local measures.
We can help
You do not have to navigate this alone. As a local team serving the Eastside and Greater Seattle, we help you understand ongoing costs during a purchase or sale, spot parcel-specific variables, and plan timelines with confidence. When you are ready to talk strategy for your home, connect with Nest NW Group. Get your instant home valuation.
FAQs
How do Bothell’s two counties affect my taxes?
- Your parcel follows the systems of the county it sits in. Check your parcel on the King County Department of Assessments or the Snohomish County Assessor to see the correct valuation and levy details.
Where can I find my Bothell parcel’s levy rate?
- Look up your parcel on your county assessor or treasurer site. Start with the King County Department of Assessments or Snohomish County Assessor, then confirm on the King County Treasurer or Snohomish County Treasurer.
What are Washington’s property tax due dates for Bothell homes?
- Taxes are commonly due in two installments, typically end of April and end of October. Confirm current-year dates on your county treasurer page: King County Treasurer or Snohomish County Treasurer.
How do I appeal a Bothell home’s assessed value?
- After you receive your notice, request an informal review with the assessor, then file a formal appeal by the deadline if needed. See instructions on King County Department of Assessments or Snohomish County Assessor.
What relief programs exist for Bothell homeowners?
- Programs may include senior or disabled person exemptions or deferrals and disabled veteran exemptions. Start with the Washington Department of Revenue overview and contact your county assessor for eligibility and applications.
What happens if I pay my Bothell property taxes late?
- Penalties and interest apply. Contact your county treasurer immediately to understand added costs and ask about payment plans: King County Treasurer or Snohomish County Treasurer.
