Assessor

Assessor's Office Lobby

The Assessor's Office is open for walk-in requests, and appointments are encouraged to reduce wait time. Appointments may be made by calling 360-778-5050 or emailing [email protected].

Remote options are available for completing most transactions. Many questions and services can be answered online, by phone, by email, or by mail. In addition, a drop box is available outside our lobby doors for document submittal.

  1. 2023 Property Tax Information

    Bellingham- The Whatcom County Assessor’s Office is responsible for annually updating assessed values for all real and taxable personal property in Whatcom County, and calculating levy rates for all taxing districts for property tax purposes. Read on...

  2. 2022 Change of Value Notices

    The 2022 Change of Value Notices were mailed September 30, 2022. State law requires County Assessors to appraise every property annually, with an effective assessment date of January 1st for most properties, and July 31st for new construction. Read on...

  3. Business Personal Property Listings Due Date Extended to Monday May 2

    Everyone who uses personal property in a business must complete a personal property listing every year and submit to the Assessor’s Office by April 30. Since April 30 is on a Saturday this year the Assessor’s Office has extended the due date to May 2 Read on...
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Mission

Equitably establish taxable value for all real and taxable personal property in the County, maintain accurate and accessible property records, and provide prompt and professional customer service. Operate under the rules, regulations, and supervision contained in the Constitution of the State of Washington, set in Washington State Law (WAC and RCW), and directed by the Washington State Department of Revenue.

Services

Established by state constitution and laws, directed by the Department of Revenue, the Assessor's Office:

  • Appraises and revalues all real property, and physically inspects 1/6th of all real property, every year. Responds to building permit activity to include new construction additions
  • Maintains inventory, description, ownership, sales and mapping for all property
  • Publishes an annual tax booklet, which includes the statement of assessed valuations, tax rates and taxes levied within the various taxing districts of Whatcom County
  • Provides information, education and assistance
  • Provides online property and assessment information through Real Property Search
  • Allocates value to taxing districts, calculates levy rates and certifies tax roll to Treasurer
  • Administers and provides information for tax exemptions
  • Prepares defenses of valuations for Board of Equalization, State Board of Tax Appeals and courts