Property Tax Definitions

Definitions

Ad Valorem means “based on value.”  Ad Valorem Taxes are based on the value of real estate or tangible property determined by the Assessor.

Adjudication is a sale of redeemable property claim to the City. 

Business Personal Property Tax is an ad valorem tax assessed against the furniture, fixtures and equipment located in businesses.

Homestead Exemption is a deduction from property value allowed by law that reduces the taxable assessment.  Property owners who may be eligible for the homestead exemption should contact the Orleans Parish Assessor’s Office at info@orleansassessors.com or call (504) 754-8811.

Lien is a form of security interest granted over an item of property to secure the payment of a debt or performance of some other obligation

Millage Rate is the rate of taxation.  One mill is 1/1000 of a dollar, which is 1/10th of 1 cent.  A tax of one mill on $1,000 of value is $1.00.  A tax of 18 mills (typical of New Orleans) on a value of $100,000.00 is $1,800.00.  Tax rates are set by the Taxing Authorities.

Ordinance is a law set forth by a governmental authority.

Redemption is the action of regaining or gaining possession of something in exchange for payment or clearing a debt.

Taxing Authority is a governmental entity that determines the amount of revenue to meet statutory requirements and budgets by setting a property tax rate (millage).

Tax District is any geographic area or political subdivision where property owners pay a proportional share for public improvements and special services.

Tax sale is a sale of redeemable property claim to a 3rd party.

Tax sale costs are the costs associated with preparing the property for the upcoming tax sale.  The New Orleans Code of Ordinances Sec. 150-50. (a)(4) that the charge is collectible from the property owner in the same manner as the tax.

A Writ is a court order.