A modern approach to citizen engagement recognizes that many citizens appreciate the ability to interact with their local government in a digital environment — paying property taxes online, researching publicly available information, submitting documents and forms, and more. That's where Engage™ comes in.
Engage™ is an online resource where citizens, real estate professionals, businesses, and others can access publicly available property information, including:
Engage™ is intended to be an intuitive, user-friendly application. That said, some features benefit from a bit of guidance. The user guide below will walk you through the site, and the resources in the left-hand menu are available to assist you throughout your property assessment journey.
A step-by-step walkthrough of the site's search, document, and form features.
View GuideThank you for visiting our website and for the opportunity to serve you.
A modern approach to citizen engagement recognizes that many citizens appreciate the ability to interact with their local government in a digital environment — paying property taxes online, researching publicly available information, submitting documents and forms, and more. That's where Engage™ comes in.
Engage™ is an online resource where citizens, real estate professionals, businesses, and others can access publicly available property information, including:
Engage™ is intended to be an intuitive, user-friendly application. That said, some features benefit from a bit of guidance. The user guide below will walk you through the site, and the resources in the left-hand menu are available to assist you throughout your property assessment journey.
A step-by-step walkthrough of the site's search, document, and form features.
View GuideThank you for visiting our website and for the opportunity to serve you.
The terms below appear throughout this site and on the notices and forms our office sends. Definitions follow Indiana Code where applicable.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Assessment Notice | A written notice to the property owner of the assessed value of certain properties described in the notice. Law mandates that notice be given to the property owner following a revaluation of the property. The Form 11 is the actual notice sent by the Assessor, listing some of the property characteristics and the new assessed values. |
| Land | The ground on which improvements may be placed. Does not include anything but the land itself. |
| Improvements | Anything that is built on the land — for example, a house, barn, pool, or paving. |
| Real Estate | The physical land and everything permanently attached to it. |
| Real Property |
The sum of tangible and intangible rights in land and improvements on the land. Real property means:
|
| Personal Property |
Movable items not permanently affixed to or part of the real estate, such as:
|
| Tangible Property | The combination of real property and personal property. |
| Tangible Personal Property | Personal property such as goods, wares, and merchandise — anything that has physical attributes and can actually be seen and handled. |
| Intangible Personal Property | Personal property such as money, deposits, credits, shares of stock, bonds, notes, other evidences of indebtedness, and other evidences of property interests — that is, paper assets. |
Please contact our office at (317) 392-6305 or dhill@co.shelby.in.us if you have any further questions.
The terms below appear throughout this site and on the notices and forms our office sends. Definitions follow Indiana Code where applicable.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Assessment Notice | A written notice to the property owner of the assessed value of certain properties described in the notice. Law mandates that notice be given to the property owner following a revaluation of the property. The Form 11 is the actual notice sent by the Assessor, listing some of the property characteristics and the new assessed values. |
| Land | The ground on which improvements may be placed. Does not include anything but the land itself. |
| Improvements | Anything that is built on the land — for example, a house, barn, pool, or paving. |
| Real Estate | The physical land and everything permanently attached to it. |
| Real Property |
The sum of tangible and intangible rights in land and improvements on the land. Real property means:
|
| Personal Property |
Movable items not permanently affixed to or part of the real estate, such as:
|
| Tangible Property | The combination of real property and personal property. |
| Tangible Personal Property | Personal property such as goods, wares, and merchandise — anything that has physical attributes and can actually be seen and handled. |
| Intangible Personal Property | Personal property such as money, deposits, credits, shares of stock, bonds, notes, other evidences of indebtedness, and other evidences of property interests — that is, paper assets. |
Please contact our office at (317) 392-6305 or dhill@co.shelby.in.us if you have any further questions.
An assessment:
Property taxes are affected by:
Annual adjustments or "trending" of property values became part of Indiana's move to a market-based assessment system upon order of the Indiana Supreme Court in 2001. Trending requires assessors to research sales of properties in a particular area over the previous year. Using that information, assessors then estimate the values of other properties in the same area to determine an assessed value. For the 2026 assessments payable in 2027, the assessor examines sales from calendar year 2025.
Assessments may increase or decrease due to:
Indiana requires annual adjustments to help keep assessments aligned with changing market conditions. Trending may occur even if:
During statewide cyclical reassessments, county and township assessors conduct physical inspections of each property to verify the accuracy of property records. This inspection process facilitates the collection of data necessary for valuing the property. The reassessment cycle is now conducted over a four-year period, and approximately 25% of the parcels in each county will be reassessed each year.
Assessments may increase due to, but not limited to:
Assessors generally start their assessments with a Replacement Cost New ("RCN") value. The cost data is provided by Craftsman (Department of Local Government Finance's ("DLGF") vendor) to reflect national market conditions. The DLGF then analyzes the data to reflect the market value-in-use of improvements in Marion County through the VEM that calculates data on the central Indiana market. To further refine the data, a Location Cost Multiplier ("LCM") is established by the DLGF for each of the 92 counties.
The LCM for each county reflects the costs of construction and labor in the county relative to Marion County. Each county assessor has the option to use the published LCM to adjust the final RCN of real property to reflect local market conditions or petition the DLGF to use their own calculation. The LCM is calculated on an annual basis.
DLGF Updated Cost Schedules Memo
2026 Appendix C – Residential and Agricultural Cost Schedules | 2026 Appendix G – Commercial and Industrial Cost Schedules
Location Cost Modifiers for the 2026 Annual Adjustment | 2026 LCM Results
Agricultural land assessments are determined using a statewide statutory formula. The capitalization rate increased from 8% to 9%, reducing the agricultural land base rate to $2,120 per acre. This was changed as a result of SEA 1-2025 for the January 1, 2025, assessment date and was extended to include 2026 assessments with taxes payable in 2027.
You have the right to review the details of your property record card with your assessor. If you believe your assessment is incorrect, the appeal process is available to you — see the section below for more information.
An appeal begins with filing a Form 130 – Taxpayer's Notice to Initiate an Appeal with the local assessing official. The appeal should detail the pertinent facts of why the assessed value is being disputed. A taxpayer may only request a review of the current year's assessed valuation. Following an informal conference with the local assessing official, the assessor will make a recommendation either denying or approving the appeal. If denied, the appeal will be forwarded to the county Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals ("PTABOA") for review. If the PTABOA denies the appeal, instructions will be provided on appealing the decision to the Indiana Board of Tax Review. After being heard by the Indiana Board of Tax Review, taxpayers may also seek review by the Indiana Tax Court.
A taxpayer can still file an appeal concerning "objective" issues (i.e., factual matters, such as the property record card contains an incorrect description of the property, like a garage that does not exist); however, it is on page 2 of the Form 130.
An objective appeal may include:
Objective claims may be made for up to three years of assessments with the submission of the Form 130. However, taxpayers requesting refunds must also file a Claim for Refund form (Form 17T).
Source: Assessment Fact Sheet, published by the Association of Indiana Counties (AIC). Content is intended to help Indiana assessing officials explain common assessment changes and answer taxpayer questions regarding the January 1, 2026, assessment date for taxes payable in 2027.
An assessment:
Property taxes are affected by:
Annual adjustments or "trending" of property values became part of Indiana's move to a market-based assessment system upon order of the Indiana Supreme Court in 2001. Trending requires assessors to research sales of properties in a particular area over the previous year. Using that information, assessors then estimate the values of other properties in the same area to determine an assessed value. For the 2026 assessments payable in 2027, the assessor examines sales from calendar year 2025.
Assessments may increase or decrease due to:
Indiana requires annual adjustments to help keep assessments aligned with changing market conditions. Trending may occur even if:
During statewide cyclical reassessments, county and township assessors conduct physical inspections of each property to verify the accuracy of property records. This inspection process facilitates the collection of data necessary for valuing the property. The reassessment cycle is now conducted over a four-year period, and approximately 25% of the parcels in each county will be reassessed each year.
Assessments may increase due to, but not limited to:
Assessors generally start their assessments with a Replacement Cost New ("RCN") value. The cost data is provided by Craftsman (Department of Local Government Finance's ("DLGF") vendor) to reflect national market conditions. The DLGF then analyzes the data to reflect the market value-in-use of improvements in Marion County through the VEM that calculates data on the central Indiana market. To further refine the data, a Location Cost Multiplier ("LCM") is established by the DLGF for each of the 92 counties.
The LCM for each county reflects the costs of construction and labor in the county relative to Marion County. Each county assessor has the option to use the published LCM to adjust the final RCN of real property to reflect local market conditions or petition the DLGF to use their own calculation. The LCM is calculated on an annual basis.
DLGF Updated Cost Schedules Memo
2026 Appendix C – Residential and Agricultural Cost Schedules | 2026 Appendix G – Commercial and Industrial Cost Schedules
Location Cost Modifiers for the 2026 Annual Adjustment | 2026 LCM Results
Agricultural land assessments are determined using a statewide statutory formula. The capitalization rate increased from 8% to 9%, reducing the agricultural land base rate to $2,120 per acre. This was changed as a result of SEA 1-2025 for the January 1, 2025, assessment date and was extended to include 2026 assessments with taxes payable in 2027.
You have the right to review the details of your property record card with your assessor. If you believe your assessment is incorrect, the appeal process is available to you — see the section below for more information.
An appeal begins with filing a Form 130 – Taxpayer's Notice to Initiate an Appeal with the local assessing official. The appeal should detail the pertinent facts of why the assessed value is being disputed. A taxpayer may only request a review of the current year's assessed valuation. Following an informal conference with the local assessing official, the assessor will make a recommendation either denying or approving the appeal. If denied, the appeal will be forwarded to the county Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals ("PTABOA") for review. If the PTABOA denies the appeal, instructions will be provided on appealing the decision to the Indiana Board of Tax Review. After being heard by the Indiana Board of Tax Review, taxpayers may also seek review by the Indiana Tax Court.
A taxpayer can still file an appeal concerning "objective" issues (i.e., factual matters, such as the property record card contains an incorrect description of the property, like a garage that does not exist); however, it is on page 2 of the Form 130.
An objective appeal may include:
Objective claims may be made for up to three years of assessments with the submission of the Form 130. However, taxpayers requesting refunds must also file a Claim for Refund form (Form 17T).
Source: Assessment Fact Sheet, published by the Association of Indiana Counties (AIC). Content is intended to help Indiana assessing officials explain common assessment changes and answer taxpayer questions regarding the January 1, 2026, assessment date for taxes payable in 2027.
On August 15, 2026, a federal Emergency Declaration was approved for the State of Indiana following the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that began on August 11, 2026. Washington County is among the counties included in the declaration.
Property owners whose real or personal property was physically damaged or destroyed by the disaster may petition the Assessor's Office for a survey and reassessment of the affected property by filing Form 137R.
Petition for Survey and Reassessment. Real and personal property partially or totally destroyed by disaster.
Download PDFQuestions about disaster reassessment may be directed to the Washington County Assessor's Office.
Please take note of the following instructions regarding the forms below.
Before You Begin
Report a missed inspection or provide property details online. You will be asked to search for your property first.
Open FormOn August 15, 2026, a federal Emergency Declaration was approved for the State of Indiana following the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that began on August 11, 2026. Washington County is among the counties included in the declaration.
Property owners whose real or personal property was physically damaged or destroyed by the disaster may petition the Assessor's Office for a survey and reassessment of the affected property by filing Form 137R.
Petition for Survey and Reassessment. Real and personal property partially or totally destroyed by disaster.
Download PDFQuestions about disaster reassessment may be directed to the Washington County Assessor's Office.
Please take note of the following instructions regarding the forms below.
Before You Begin
Report a missed inspection or provide property details online. You will be asked to search for your property first.
Open FormProperty record cards can be searched, located, and printed online through a parcel search by clicking here.
For a current representation of the housing market across the State of Indiana, click here.
For a current representation of the housing market in Washington County, click here and select Washington County.
Contact the Washington County Assessor's Office:
Real property in Indiana is assessed at Market Value in Use. Distress sales such as tax sales, foreclosures, or short sales are typically not representative of market value.
Assessed values fluctuate with the market. Valid sales provide important indicators of market trends. An arm's-length sale may affect future assessed values.
The Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) offers extensive information regarding assessment practices and tax policy: DLGF Overview.
Ratio studies are conducted to ensure uniformity and equity in a mass appraisal system. They compare assessed values to actual sale prices to measure how accurate and uniform assessments are, and the results help guide the annual adjustment of property values. For more information, visit the DLGF.
Property tax caps limit the amount of property tax a property owner pays as a percentage of the property's gross assessed value: 1% for homestead properties, 2% for other residential property and agricultural land, and 3% for all other real and personal property. For a full explanation, please see the first paragraph on the following webpage: Tax Bill 101.
If the Form 11 Notice of Assessment is mailed before May 1, the filing deadline is June 15 of that year.
If the Form 11 is mailed after April 30, the filing deadline is June 15 of the year tax statements are mailed.
Indiana Code reference: IC 6-1.1-15-1.1
Contact the Washington County Assessor's Office for the status of active appeals.
Assessed values reflect the market and are trended annually. Actual taxes may vary based on local approved tax rates, referendums, or individual circumstances.
Sales information can be obtained here, or through the Department of Local Government Finance website by clicking here.
During reassessment, field agents inspect the exterior of properties and may interview owners for interior information. If no one is available, a door hanger is left. This information helps ensure accurate assessments.
During statewide reassessments, assessors inspect properties to verify features such as size and improvements. This ensures properties are accurately and fairly assessed.
For recording questions, please click here.
State tax lien questions should be directed to the County Clerk's Office: Clerk's Office.
Federal tax lien questions should be directed to the County Recorder's Office: Recorder's Office.
Probate and estate filings should be directed to the County Clerk's Office: click here.
If you live within a city or town, contact the municipality. If you live outside municipal boundaries, contact the County Plan Commission at (812) 883-0139: Plan Commission.
Property record cards can be searched, located, and printed online through a parcel search by clicking here.
For a current representation of the housing market across the State of Indiana, click here.
For a current representation of the housing market in Washington County, click here and select Washington County.
Contact the Washington County Assessor's Office:
Real property in Indiana is assessed at Market Value in Use. Distress sales such as tax sales, foreclosures, or short sales are typically not representative of market value.
Assessed values fluctuate with the market. Valid sales provide important indicators of market trends. An arm's-length sale may affect future assessed values.
The Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) offers extensive information regarding assessment practices and tax policy: DLGF Overview.
Ratio studies are conducted to ensure uniformity and equity in a mass appraisal system. They compare assessed values to actual sale prices to measure how accurate and uniform assessments are, and the results help guide the annual adjustment of property values. For more information, visit the DLGF.
Property tax caps limit the amount of property tax a property owner pays as a percentage of the property's gross assessed value: 1% for homestead properties, 2% for other residential property and agricultural land, and 3% for all other real and personal property. For a full explanation, please see the first paragraph on the following webpage: Tax Bill 101.
If the Form 11 Notice of Assessment is mailed before May 1, the filing deadline is June 15 of that year.
If the Form 11 is mailed after April 30, the filing deadline is June 15 of the year tax statements are mailed.
Indiana Code reference: IC 6-1.1-15-1.1
Contact the Washington County Assessor's Office for the status of active appeals.
Assessed values reflect the market and are trended annually. Actual taxes may vary based on local approved tax rates, referendums, or individual circumstances.
Sales information can be obtained here, or through the Department of Local Government Finance website by clicking here.
During reassessment, field agents inspect the exterior of properties and may interview owners for interior information. If no one is available, a door hanger is left. This information helps ensure accurate assessments.
During statewide reassessments, assessors inspect properties to verify features such as size and improvements. This ensures properties are accurately and fairly assessed.
For recording questions, please click here.
State tax lien questions should be directed to the County Clerk's Office: Clerk's Office.
Federal tax lien questions should be directed to the County Recorder's Office: Recorder's Office.
Probate and estate filings should be directed to the County Clerk's Office: click here.
If you live within a city or town, contact the municipality. If you live outside municipal boundaries, contact the County Plan Commission at (812) 883-0139: Plan Commission.
During statewide reassessments, county and township assessors physically inspect each property to ensure that records are correct. Approximately 25% of the parcels in each jurisdiction will be reassessed each year, over a four-year time frame.
During a field inspection, personnel will attempt to make contact with the taxpayer to identify his/herself and explain their purpose for the visit. They will ask several questions to verify information about the interior of the property and request permission to inspect the exterior. If no one is home, personnel will proceed with their work, which includes an inspection of the front and rear of the property. When the inspection is complete, a door hanger will be left to inform the taxpayer that we were there. Photographs will also be taken during all inspections.
Each reassessment field inspector wears an ID badge. If a taxpayer is uncertain about the identity of a representative, please contact the Washington County Assessor's Office for verification.
Department of Local Government Finance: assessment guidance, forms, and property tax information.
Visit DLGFWashington County's countywide sales ratio study, submitted annually to the DLGF to keep assessed values in line with actual sales.
View Ratio StudyReassessment is the periodic reevaluation of a property's taxable value. It ensures that property taxes are fair and based on the property's current market value, not outdated figures.
Indiana follows a cyclical reassessment system, meaning:
Key Dates: The current reassessment cycle began May 1, 2023, and must be completed by December 31, 2026.
Timing and Valuation Date:
Assessed Value vs. Market Value:
Indiana assessors use a standardized mass appraisal system to determine property values. Several key features can significantly influence your assessed value:
Physical Characteristics
Improvements and Renovations
Location Factors
Land vs. Improvement Value
Renovations That Often Increase Taxes
| Renovation Type | Likely Tax Impact |
|---|---|
| Adding a room or finishing a basement | High |
| Installing a new bathroom or kitchen | Moderate to High |
| Building a deck or sunroom | Moderate |
| In-ground pool or hot tub | High |
| Structural upgrades (foundation, roof) | Moderate to High |
Renovations That Usually Don't Affect Taxes
These are considered non-structural or non-permanent and typically don't trigger reassessment.
County's CAMA System
Ratio Study
Market Factor: A market factor is a multiplicative factor designed to raise or lower the cost approach value for a neighborhood so that it stays in line with actual sales in that neighborhood.
If you disagree with your reassessment:
Tips for Homeowners
Indiana significantly restructured its property tax deductions and credits under 2025's Senate Enrolled Act 1 (SEA 1). Several deductions that reduced assessed value have been phased down, phased out, or converted into flat credits applied directly to the tax bill, generally effective for taxes due starting in 2026.
Homestead Deduction (Standard) — Phasing Down
Who qualifies: Homeowners using the property as their primary residence, for the home and up to one acre of land.
Apply using State Form 5473 (HC10) — Claim for Homestead Property Tax Standard/Supplemental Deduction.
| Assessment Date | Deduction |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $48,000 (or 60% of AV, whichever is less) |
| 2026 | $40,000 |
| 2027 | $30,000 |
| 2028 | $20,000 |
| 2029 | $10,000 |
| 2030 and after | Eliminated |
Homestead Deduction (Supplemental) — Phasing Up
Applied as a percentage of assessed value remaining after the standard deduction.
| Taxes Due | Supplemental % |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 40% |
| 2027 | 46% |
| 2028 | 52% |
| 2029 | 57% |
| 2030 | 62% |
| 2031 and after | 66.7% |
New Homestead Tax Credit
Age 65+ Credit
For eligibility requirements and current benefit amounts, contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
Apply using State Form 43708 — Application for Senior Citizen Property Tax Benefits.
Credit for Blind or Disabled Persons
For eligibility requirements and current benefit amounts, contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
Apply using State Form 43710 — Application for Blind or Disabled Person's Deduction from Assessed Valuation.
Veteran Deductions
For eligibility requirements and current benefit amounts, contact the Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805 and/or Veteran Affairs at (812) 883-2063.
Apply using State Form 12662 — Application for Tax Deduction for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses of Certain Veterans.
Other Deductions
Application forms for these deductions are available on DLGF's Deduction Forms page. For current eligibility and benefit amounts, contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
How to Apply
A full, current list of deduction and credit forms is available on DLGF's Deduction Forms page.
The County Assessor does not consider race, color, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, gender, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor in determining assessments.
During statewide reassessments, county and township assessors physically inspect each property to ensure that records are correct. Approximately 25% of the parcels in each jurisdiction will be reassessed each year, over a four-year time frame.
During a field inspection, personnel will attempt to make contact with the taxpayer to identify his/herself and explain their purpose for the visit. They will ask several questions to verify information about the interior of the property and request permission to inspect the exterior. If no one is home, personnel will proceed with their work, which includes an inspection of the front and rear of the property. When the inspection is complete, a door hanger will be left to inform the taxpayer that we were there. Photographs will also be taken during all inspections.
Each reassessment field inspector wears an ID badge. If a taxpayer is uncertain about the identity of a representative, please contact the Washington County Assessor's Office for verification.
Department of Local Government Finance: assessment guidance, forms, and property tax information.
Visit DLGFWashington County's countywide sales ratio study, submitted annually to the DLGF to keep assessed values in line with actual sales.
View Ratio StudyReassessment is the periodic reevaluation of a property's taxable value. It ensures that property taxes are fair and based on the property's current market value, not outdated figures.
Indiana follows a cyclical reassessment system, meaning:
Key Dates: The current reassessment cycle began May 1, 2023, and must be completed by December 31, 2026.
Timing and Valuation Date:
Assessed Value vs. Market Value:
Indiana assessors use a standardized mass appraisal system to determine property values. Several key features can significantly influence your assessed value:
Physical Characteristics
Improvements and Renovations
Location Factors
Land vs. Improvement Value
Renovations That Often Increase Taxes
| Renovation Type | Likely Tax Impact |
|---|---|
| Adding a room or finishing a basement | High |
| Installing a new bathroom or kitchen | Moderate to High |
| Building a deck or sunroom | Moderate |
| In-ground pool or hot tub | High |
| Structural upgrades (foundation, roof) | Moderate to High |
Renovations That Usually Don't Affect Taxes
These are considered non-structural or non-permanent and typically don't trigger reassessment.
County's CAMA System
Ratio Study
Market Factor: A market factor is a multiplicative factor designed to raise or lower the cost approach value for a neighborhood so that it stays in line with actual sales in that neighborhood.
If you disagree with your reassessment:
Tips for Homeowners
Indiana significantly restructured its property tax deductions and credits under 2025's Senate Enrolled Act 1 (SEA 1). Several deductions that reduced assessed value have been phased down, phased out, or converted into flat credits applied directly to the tax bill, generally effective for taxes due starting in 2026.
Homestead Deduction (Standard) — Phasing Down
Who qualifies: Homeowners using the property as their primary residence, for the home and up to one acre of land.
Apply using State Form 5473 (HC10) — Claim for Homestead Property Tax Standard/Supplemental Deduction.
| Assessment Date | Deduction |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $48,000 (or 60% of AV, whichever is less) |
| 2026 | $40,000 |
| 2027 | $30,000 |
| 2028 | $20,000 |
| 2029 | $10,000 |
| 2030 and after | Eliminated |
Homestead Deduction (Supplemental) — Phasing Up
Applied as a percentage of assessed value remaining after the standard deduction.
| Taxes Due | Supplemental % |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 40% |
| 2027 | 46% |
| 2028 | 52% |
| 2029 | 57% |
| 2030 | 62% |
| 2031 and after | 66.7% |
New Homestead Tax Credit
Age 65+ Credit
For eligibility requirements and current benefit amounts, contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
Apply using State Form 43708 — Application for Senior Citizen Property Tax Benefits.
Credit for Blind or Disabled Persons
For eligibility requirements and current benefit amounts, contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
Apply using State Form 43710 — Application for Blind or Disabled Person's Deduction from Assessed Valuation.
Veteran Deductions
For eligibility requirements and current benefit amounts, contact the Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805 and/or Veteran Affairs at (812) 883-2063.
Apply using State Form 12662 — Application for Tax Deduction for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses of Certain Veterans.
Other Deductions
Application forms for these deductions are available on DLGF's Deduction Forms page. For current eligibility and benefit amounts, contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
How to Apply
A full, current list of deduction and credit forms is available on DLGF's Deduction Forms page.
The County Assessor does not consider race, color, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, gender, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor in determining assessments.
Indiana Code § 6-1.1-15-1.1
As a result of legislation passed in 2017, significant changes were made to the appeal process. Taxpayers wishing to contest the assessed value of property may do so by submitting a Form 130, prescribed by the State, to the County Assessor's office.
The Form 133, previously used to contest assessments on objective grounds, has been eliminated. Taxpayers wishing to contest their assessment on objective grounds (for example, a garage that has been removed, or too much square footage) should complete and submit page 1 and Section III of page 2 of the Form 130.
2026 Appeal Deadline
Washington County's Form 11 Notice of Assessment for the January 1, 2026 assessment date was mailed on April 28, 2026. Because this was on or before April 30, the deadline to file an appeal is June 15, 2026.
Taxpayer's Notice to Initiate an Appeal. Page 1 for value appeals, Section III of page 2 for objective corrections.
Download PDFThe DLGF's step-by-step diagram of the appeal procedure, from filing through the Indiana Supreme Court.
Download PDFIndiana Board of Tax Review, the state body that reviews PTABOA determinations.
Visit IBTRWashington County has a three voting-member Board in accordance with Indiana Code § 6-1.1-28. The County Assessor serves as secretary and as a non-voting member.
| Member | Role |
|---|---|
| Michael Carlisle | Level III Assessor |
| Evan Goodman | Level II Assessor |
| Lori Gilstrap | Appraiser |
The PTABOA does not meet on a fixed schedule. It convenes once a year, after the County Assessor has completed informal hearings and determined which appeals are moving forward to the Board. At that point, a meeting date is set along with individual hearing time slots for each case. The Board makes determinations on matters ranging from taxpayers' appeals and requests for exemptions to settling questions of assessment policy and practices. Meetings are open to the public.
Prior to the meeting, the Hearing Officer will make recommendations on the issues being brought before the Board. Board members discuss each item, hear oral testimony when necessary, and make a determination by voting on each issue. Taxpayers are notified of the determination in writing and have the option of appealing the decision.
Taxpayers with issues before the Board are encouraged to attend and are given the opportunity to present testimony. In the interest of fairness, testimony may be limited to five minutes.
Written evidence is best submitted before the meeting, to allow Board members the opportunity to review and analyze the material. Board members may respond to testimony and documentation during the hearing; there is no time limit for this discussion. Generally, a representative from the County Assessor's office is available to respond to Board member and taxpayer questions.
Request an Informal Meeting
If you have already filed an appeal and would like to discuss it informally, contact the Washington County Assessor's Office at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1016 (Tracy Watson) or ext. 1015 (Sherry Wingler).
Indiana Code § 6-1.1-15-1.1
As a result of legislation passed in 2017, significant changes were made to the appeal process. Taxpayers wishing to contest the assessed value of property may do so by submitting a Form 130, prescribed by the State, to the County Assessor's office.
The Form 133, previously used to contest assessments on objective grounds, has been eliminated. Taxpayers wishing to contest their assessment on objective grounds (for example, a garage that has been removed, or too much square footage) should complete and submit page 1 and Section III of page 2 of the Form 130.
2026 Appeal Deadline
Washington County's Form 11 Notice of Assessment for the January 1, 2026 assessment date was mailed on April 28, 2026. Because this was on or before April 30, the deadline to file an appeal is June 15, 2026.
Taxpayer's Notice to Initiate an Appeal. Page 1 for value appeals, Section III of page 2 for objective corrections.
Download PDFThe DLGF's step-by-step diagram of the appeal procedure, from filing through the Indiana Supreme Court.
Download PDFIndiana Board of Tax Review, the state body that reviews PTABOA determinations.
Visit IBTRWashington County has a three voting-member Board in accordance with Indiana Code § 6-1.1-28. The County Assessor serves as secretary and as a non-voting member.
| Member | Role |
|---|---|
| Michael Carlisle | Level III Assessor |
| Evan Goodman | Level II Assessor |
| Lori Gilstrap | Appraiser |
The PTABOA does not meet on a fixed schedule. It convenes once a year, after the County Assessor has completed informal hearings and determined which appeals are moving forward to the Board. At that point, a meeting date is set along with individual hearing time slots for each case. The Board makes determinations on matters ranging from taxpayers' appeals and requests for exemptions to settling questions of assessment policy and practices. Meetings are open to the public.
Prior to the meeting, the Hearing Officer will make recommendations on the issues being brought before the Board. Board members discuss each item, hear oral testimony when necessary, and make a determination by voting on each issue. Taxpayers are notified of the determination in writing and have the option of appealing the decision.
Taxpayers with issues before the Board are encouraged to attend and are given the opportunity to present testimony. In the interest of fairness, testimony may be limited to five minutes.
Written evidence is best submitted before the meeting, to allow Board members the opportunity to review and analyze the material. Board members may respond to testimony and documentation during the hearing; there is no time limit for this discussion. Generally, a representative from the County Assessor's office is available to respond to Board member and taxpayer questions.
Request an Informal Meeting
If you have already filed an appeal and would like to discuss it informally, contact the Washington County Assessor's Office at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1016 (Tracy Watson) or ext. 1015 (Sherry Wingler).
The Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF), in partnership with the Indiana Business Research Center (IBRC) at Indiana University, created the tax bill projection tools below for Indiana taxpayers. These tools allow you to enter your property's assessed value and possible deductions to see a range of tax bill estimates.
Estimate a tax bill for the current pay 2026 cycle using your assessed value and applicable deductions.
Open EstimatorLook up your taxing district number and name by township, or find it on a prior tax bill.
District Look UpYou will need your property's assessed value and your taxing district number. To find your assessed value, search for your property on this site and locate the value labeled Assessed Value Total Land and Improvements. Your taxing district number appears on your tax bill and matches the district numbers listed in the estimator.
A list of taxing districts by township is also available on the DLGF Township Look Up page.
Estimates Only
The figures provided by these tools are projections only and should not be taken as a statement of true tax liability. Local income tax property tax credits and the Over 65 credit are not included in the estimate, so your actual bill may be lower than the figure shown. Final figures are calculated by the County Auditor and certified before tax bills are mailed.
The Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF), in partnership with the Indiana Business Research Center (IBRC) at Indiana University, created the tax bill projection tools below for Indiana taxpayers. These tools allow you to enter your property's assessed value and possible deductions to see a range of tax bill estimates.
Estimate a tax bill for the current pay 2026 cycle using your assessed value and applicable deductions.
Open EstimatorLook up your taxing district number and name by township, or find it on a prior tax bill.
District Look UpYou will need your property's assessed value and your taxing district number. To find your assessed value, search for your property on this site and locate the value labeled Assessed Value Total Land and Improvements. Your taxing district number appears on your tax bill and matches the district numbers listed in the estimator.
A list of taxing districts by township is also available on the DLGF Township Look Up page.
Estimates Only
The figures provided by these tools are projections only and should not be taken as a statement of true tax liability. Local income tax property tax credits and the Over 65 credit are not included in the estimate, so your actual bill may be lower than the figure shown. Final figures are calculated by the County Auditor and certified before tax bills are mailed.
The true tax value of mobile homes is assessed under IC 6-1.1-7 (other than mobile homes subject to the preferred valuation method under IC 6-1.1-439(b)) using J.D. Power Connect.
50 IAC 3.3-2-2
"Annually assessed mobile home" defined Sec. 2 — "Annually assessed mobile home" means a mobile home that: (1) has a certificate of title issued by the bureau of motor vehicles under IC 9-17-6; and (2) is not on a permanent foundation.
IC 9-17-1-0.5
Items requiring a title under IC 9-17 Sec. 0.5. The following are required to be titled under this article: (3) Manufactured or mobile homes that are: (A) personal property not held for resale; or (B) not attached to real estate by a permanent foundation.
50 IAC 3.3-2-3 — "Mobile Home" means a "dwelling" as defined in IC 9-13-2-103.2.
A "manufactured home" as defined in IC 9-13-2-96.
If you have any questions regarding Transferring/Moving permits, see the guidance offered by the Office of the Washington County Treasurer.
Questions about mobile home assessments? Contact Shirley Batt at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1211.
The true tax value of mobile homes is assessed under IC 6-1.1-7 (other than mobile homes subject to the preferred valuation method under IC 6-1.1-439(b)) using J.D. Power Connect.
50 IAC 3.3-2-2
"Annually assessed mobile home" defined Sec. 2 — "Annually assessed mobile home" means a mobile home that: (1) has a certificate of title issued by the bureau of motor vehicles under IC 9-17-6; and (2) is not on a permanent foundation.
IC 9-17-1-0.5
Items requiring a title under IC 9-17 Sec. 0.5. The following are required to be titled under this article: (3) Manufactured or mobile homes that are: (A) personal property not held for resale; or (B) not attached to real estate by a permanent foundation.
50 IAC 3.3-2-3 — "Mobile Home" means a "dwelling" as defined in IC 9-13-2-103.2.
A "manufactured home" as defined in IC 9-13-2-96.
If you have any questions regarding Transferring/Moving permits, see the guidance offered by the Office of the Washington County Treasurer.
Questions about mobile home assessments? Contact Shirley Batt at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1211.
Personal Property is a self-assessed valuation system whereby property owners are responsible for reporting all tangible personal property that is used in their trade or business, used for the production of income, or held as an investment that should be or is subject to depreciation for federal income tax purposes. Completed personal property returns must be received on or before Friday, May 15, 2026. Returns can be mailed to: Washington County Assessor, 99 Public Square, Suite 105, Salem, IN 47167 and must be postmarked on or before May 15, 2026.
Personal Property exemption eligibility/notification SEA 233-2019
SEA1 and HEA1427 were passed amending IC 6-1.1-3-7.2 to allow an exemption from the tax for business owners filing under $2,000,000 in acquisition costs. Beginning with the January 1, 2026 assessment date, once a taxpayer files a completed return requesting the exemption, they will no longer be required to file a personal property tax return, unless or until the taxpayer no longer qualifies for the exemption. (IC 6-1.1-3-7.2(f) SEA1 and HEA1427)
Business owners shall report assets in the correct taxing unit where the property has tax situs.* The return must include a NAICS code which appears on the federal return. Individuals using Social Security numbers as Federal Identification numbers are only required to use the last four digits. Failure to file a return on or before the due date without a declared value or signature, not in the correct taxing unit, or without a NAICS code, will result in a penalty of $25.00 per Indiana Code 6-1.1-37-7.
* Pre-stamped and dated postmarks without an official USPS postmark will be deemed late if received after the deadline of May 15, 2026. Appropriate fees and penalties will be applied.
The other change due to these bills provides that the 30% minimum valuation limitation does not apply to new business personal property placed in service after January 1, 2025. (For more information, see Legislation Affecting Deductions, Exemptions, and Credits)
To look up your taxing district go to https://budgetnotices.in.gov/
NAICS codes look up go to https://www.census.gov/naics/
Please note taxpayers or their agents will no longer be able to access PPOP-IN for filing new or amended returns starting January 1, 2026. PPOP-IN will be available for historical purposes only.
Please contact Gina Walker at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1212 if you have any further questions.
Completed personal property forms can be mailed or hand-delivered to:
Washington County Assessor
99 Public Square, Suite 105
Salem, IN 47167
Personal Property is a self-assessed valuation system whereby property owners are responsible for reporting all tangible personal property that is used in their trade or business, used for the production of income, or held as an investment that should be or is subject to depreciation for federal income tax purposes. Completed personal property returns must be received on or before Friday, May 15, 2026. Returns can be mailed to: Washington County Assessor, 99 Public Square, Suite 105, Salem, IN 47167 and must be postmarked on or before May 15, 2026.
Personal Property exemption eligibility/notification SEA 233-2019
SEA1 and HEA1427 were passed amending IC 6-1.1-3-7.2 to allow an exemption from the tax for business owners filing under $2,000,000 in acquisition costs. Beginning with the January 1, 2026 assessment date, once a taxpayer files a completed return requesting the exemption, they will no longer be required to file a personal property tax return, unless or until the taxpayer no longer qualifies for the exemption. (IC 6-1.1-3-7.2(f) SEA1 and HEA1427)
Business owners shall report assets in the correct taxing unit where the property has tax situs.* The return must include a NAICS code which appears on the federal return. Individuals using Social Security numbers as Federal Identification numbers are only required to use the last four digits. Failure to file a return on or before the due date without a declared value or signature, not in the correct taxing unit, or without a NAICS code, will result in a penalty of $25.00 per Indiana Code 6-1.1-37-7.
* Pre-stamped and dated postmarks without an official USPS postmark will be deemed late if received after the deadline of May 15, 2026. Appropriate fees and penalties will be applied.
The other change due to these bills provides that the 30% minimum valuation limitation does not apply to new business personal property placed in service after January 1, 2025. (For more information, see Legislation Affecting Deductions, Exemptions, and Credits)
To look up your taxing district go to https://budgetnotices.in.gov/
NAICS codes look up go to https://www.census.gov/naics/
Please note taxpayers or their agents will no longer be able to access PPOP-IN for filing new or amended returns starting January 1, 2026. PPOP-IN will be available for historical purposes only.
Please contact Gina Walker at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1212 if you have any further questions.
Completed personal property forms can be mailed or hand-delivered to:
Washington County Assessor
99 Public Square, Suite 105
Salem, IN 47167
The owner of the property who wishes to obtain an exemption must file State Form 9284 / Form 136 with the County Assessor. The owner must provide all information requested on the application and accompanying information sheet. There is no filing fee.
This application/form must be filed on or before April 1 of the assessment year and must be re-filed every even year unless the exempt property is owned, occupied, and used for educational, literary, scientific, religious, or charitable purposes and continues to meet the requirements of IC 6-1.1-10-16 or IC 6-1.1-10-21, or is owned by a fraternity or sorority and continues to meet the requirements of IC 6-1.1-10-24. An application should be filed in any year in which an appeal to the Indiana Board of Tax Review or to a court for an exemption determination on the property is pending from any preceding year.
Questions about exemption filings? Contact Peggy Cleveland at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1213.
The owner of the property who wishes to obtain an exemption must file State Form 9284 / Form 136 with the County Assessor. The owner must provide all information requested on the application and accompanying information sheet. There is no filing fee.
This application/form must be filed on or before April 1 of the assessment year and must be re-filed every even year unless the exempt property is owned, occupied, and used for educational, literary, scientific, religious, or charitable purposes and continues to meet the requirements of IC 6-1.1-10-16 or IC 6-1.1-10-21, or is owned by a fraternity or sorority and continues to meet the requirements of IC 6-1.1-10-24. An application should be filed in any year in which an appeal to the Indiana Board of Tax Review or to a court for an exemption determination on the property is pending from any preceding year.
Questions about exemption filings? Contact Peggy Cleveland at (812) 883-4000, ext. 1213.
Property values increase due to real estate market trends. Values fluctuate even without any changes or improvements to property.
Changes to the property may include, but are not limited to: additions, pools, decks, sheds, pole barns, or anything more than 25 sq ft.
| Year | Median Selling Price |
|---|---|
| 2026 | $200,000 |
| 2025 | $200,000 |
| 2024 | $190,000 |
| 2023 | $171,250 |
| 2022 | $185,000 |
| 2021 | $151,500 |
| 2020 | $129,450 |
| 2019 | $109,000 |
| 2018 | $118,250 |
| 2017 | $89,900 |
| 2016 | $92,750 |
Source: Indiana Association of REALTORS® Housing Hub.
Reasons why trends are higher or lower: Since 2020, demand for homes in Washington County has remained consistently strong, and buyers have continued to pay higher prices to purchase property in the area. This upward trend has held steady rather than reversing, which is reflected in the median selling prices shown above.
For a current representation of the housing market, click here and select Washington County.
Property values increase due to real estate market trends. Values fluctuate even without any changes or improvements to property.
Changes to the property may include, but are not limited to: additions, pools, decks, sheds, pole barns, or anything more than 25 sq ft.
| Year | Median Selling Price |
|---|---|
| 2026 | $200,000 |
| 2025 | $200,000 |
| 2024 | $190,000 |
| 2023 | $171,250 |
| 2022 | $185,000 |
| 2021 | $151,500 |
| 2020 | $129,450 |
| 2019 | $109,000 |
| 2018 | $118,250 |
| 2017 | $89,900 |
| 2016 | $92,750 |
Source: Indiana Association of REALTORS® Housing Hub.
Reasons why trends are higher or lower: Since 2020, demand for homes in Washington County has remained consistently strong, and buyers have continued to pay higher prices to purchase property in the area. This upward trend has held steady rather than reversing, which is reflected in the median selling prices shown above.
For a current representation of the housing market, click here and select Washington County.
There are two ways to reach the Online Door Hanger form. If you start from your property, the form opens already linked to that parcel. If you start from the Services page, you will be asked to search for your property first.
A Property Search Is Required on the Services Path
The Continue to Door Hanger Form button remains inactive until a property has been selected. If the button appears faded, return to the Property Search panel and select your property from the results.
If you provide an email address during submission, an automated confirmation will be sent to that address for your records.
There are two ways to reach the Online Door Hanger form. If you start from your property, the form opens already linked to that parcel. If you start from the Services page, you will be asked to search for your property first.
A Property Search Is Required on the Services Path
The Continue to Door Hanger Form button remains inactive until a property has been selected. If the button appears faded, return to the Property Search panel and select your property from the results.
If you provide an email address during submission, an automated confirmation will be sent to that address for your records.
The Income Approach is a method used to assess the value of income-producing properties, such as rental properties. Unlike the Cost Approach, which considers the cost to build the property, the Income Approach focuses on the income generated by the property to determine its value.
For rental properties with four or fewer units, the Gross Rent Multiplier (GRM) is used as part of the valuation process. The GRM is calculated by dividing the sale price of the property by the rental income it generates. To determine the property's assessed value, the total rent collected is multiplied by the corresponding GRM.
As stated in Indiana Code 6-1.1-4-39: "If a taxpayer wishes to have the income capitalization method or the gross rent multiplier method used in the initial formulation of the assessment of the taxpayer's property, the taxpayer must submit the necessary information to the assessor not later than the assessment date." Specifically:
If the Assessor's office does not receive the rental property information before the assessment date, the taxpayer has the right to file an appeal for the current year's assessment. During the appeal process, rental information may be provided as evidence to support the case.
The Income Approach is a method used to assess the value of income-producing properties, such as rental properties. Unlike the Cost Approach, which considers the cost to build the property, the Income Approach focuses on the income generated by the property to determine its value.
For rental properties with four or fewer units, the Gross Rent Multiplier (GRM) is used as part of the valuation process. The GRM is calculated by dividing the sale price of the property by the rental income it generates. To determine the property's assessed value, the total rent collected is multiplied by the corresponding GRM.
As stated in Indiana Code 6-1.1-4-39: "If a taxpayer wishes to have the income capitalization method or the gross rent multiplier method used in the initial formulation of the assessment of the taxpayer's property, the taxpayer must submit the necessary information to the assessor not later than the assessment date." Specifically:
If the Assessor's office does not receive the rental property information before the assessment date, the taxpayer has the right to file an appeal for the current year's assessment. During the appeal process, rental information may be provided as evidence to support the case.
Indiana property tax caps limit the amount of property taxes to 1% of property values for homesteads (owner-occupied), 2% for other residential property and farmland, and 3% for all other property.
Note: An individual real estate assessment may contain a variety of cap allocations.
Note: Property taxes imposed after being approved by the voters in a referendum or local public question shall not be considered for purposes of calculating a person's credit (i.e. Circuit Breaker Tax Credit). In other words, voter-approved taxes are outside the property tax caps.
Note: A person does not need to file an application for the Property Tax Cap credit. It will automatically be applied to the property tax statement. This credit has nothing to do with the Homestead deduction. A taxpayer desiring to have a Homestead deduction must have an approved Homestead deduction on file in the Auditor's office.
Questions about the Homestead deduction or your Property Tax Cap credit? Contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
Indiana property tax caps limit the amount of property taxes to 1% of property values for homesteads (owner-occupied), 2% for other residential property and farmland, and 3% for all other property.
Note: An individual real estate assessment may contain a variety of cap allocations.
Note: Property taxes imposed after being approved by the voters in a referendum or local public question shall not be considered for purposes of calculating a person's credit (i.e. Circuit Breaker Tax Credit). In other words, voter-approved taxes are outside the property tax caps.
Note: A person does not need to file an application for the Property Tax Cap credit. It will automatically be applied to the property tax statement. This credit has nothing to do with the Homestead deduction. A taxpayer desiring to have a Homestead deduction must have an approved Homestead deduction on file in the Auditor's office.
Questions about the Homestead deduction or your Property Tax Cap credit? Contact the Washington County Auditor's Office at (812) 883-4805.
Washington County agricultural land values have shown meaningful movement since 2024, rising sharply into 2025 before moderating in 2026.
Indiana Agricultural Land Base Rate
Each year, the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) certifies a statewide agricultural land base rate, used to calculate the assessed value of farmland for property tax purposes. For 2026, that certified base rate is $2,120 per acre. It is calculated using an income capitalization approach, a six-year rolling average of cash rent and farm operating income, not from actual sale prices. Individual parcels are then adjusted from this base rate according to soil productivity and other statutory factors. The sales figures below reflect what agricultural land in Washington County actually sold for on the open market, which is a different measure than the assessment base rate and should not be used interchangeably with it. See the DLGF's Agricultural Land Assessments page for the full certification.
2026 Analysis at a Glance
The 2026 agricultural land analysis, based on bare-ground sales reviewed through September 17, 2026, produced a countywide median sale price of approximately $5,023 per acre, representing approximately 1,026 acres of agricultural land across 21 qualifying transactions, after consolidating multi-parcel transactions and removing sales not considered representative of bare agricultural ground.
2026 is year-to-date through September 17, 2026. 2027–2029 values are trend-based projections.
Why "Median" Instead of "Average"
Randolph County's analysis reported a dollar-weighted average (total dollars ÷ total acres). Washington County has far fewer qualifying agricultural sales per year (21–29, compared to a larger sample in Randolph), which means a dollar-weighted average can be pulled sharply up or down by just one or two large-dollar transactions. The spreadsheet Sherry provided uses a median figure as its own summary statistic, and this page follows that same approach: the median is the middle value of all qualifying sales in a given year, and it is much less sensitive to a handful of outlier sales than a weighted average would be with this sample size.
| Year | Median Sale Price per Acre | Annual Change | Sales / Acres Analyzed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $4,244 | — | 24 sales / 1,546 acres |
| 2025 | $6,469 | +52.4% | 29 sales / 1,350 acres |
| 2026 YTD | $5,023 | -22.4% | 21 sales / 1,026 acres |
| 2027 (projected) | $5,464 | +8.8% | — |
| 2028 (projected) | $5,945 | +8.8% | — |
| 2029 (projected) | $6,467 | +8.8% | — |
The countywide median agricultural land sale price increased from $4,244 per acre in 2024 to $5,023 per acre in 2026, an increase of approximately $779 per acre, or 18.4%, despite the pullback seen this year. The sharpest movement occurred in 2025, when the median rose approximately 52.4% to reach $6,469 per acre before moderating.
Following the 2025 high, agricultural land sale prices have moderated. The median declined from $6,469 per acre in 2025 to $5,023 in 2026 (year-to-date through September 17), a decrease of approximately 22.4%, or roughly $1,446 per acre. Even after this correction, the 2026 median remains approximately 18.4% above the 2024 figure.
Agricultural land is different from many other real estate markets because the amount of land offered for sale in any given year can be relatively limited. Productive farmland is often held for long periods, and owners may have little incentive to sell unless there is an estate settlement, farm expansion opportunity, ownership transition, financial need, or other specific circumstance.
When relatively few properties are available while buyer demand remains strong, competition for available farmland can place upward pressure on sale prices. This limited supply, combined with the small number of qualifying sales each year, may help explain the sharp year-to-year swings seen in this data.
An Important Statistical Consideration
With only 21 to 29 qualifying sales per year, the annual county figure can be influenced more heavily by the particular properties that happen to sell during that year than it would be in a county with a larger sample. A relatively small number of highly productive or especially desirable farms can move the annual figure, while sales of lower-quality or less competitive properties can have the opposite effect. For this reason, changes in the annual figure should not automatically be interpreted as an identical percentage change in the value of every agricultural parcel in Washington County.
For planning purposes, a growth projection has been developed for 2027 through 2029. The projection uses approximately 8.8% annual growth, reflecting the compound rate between the 2024 median of $4,244 and the current 2026 median of $5,023. This two-year compound rate was used because only three years of data (2024–2026) were available, unlike Randolph County's page, which had a longer 2020–2026 baseline to draw from.
Approximately $5,464 per acre
Approximately $5,945 per acre
Approximately $6,467 per acre
The projection would place the countywide median above the current 2026 figure but still below the 2025 high by 2029.
Projections Are Not Guaranteed Values
Agricultural land prices may be influenced by the amount of land offered for sale, agricultural income, commodity markets, financing costs, interest rates, investor demand, farm expansion activity, property quality, location, and the characteristics of the particular farms available during each year. Given that this projection rests on only two years of comparison data, actual results in Washington County could vary from this trend more than a projection built on a longer baseline would.
The available evidence shows a meaningful rise in Washington County agricultural land values from 2024 into 2025, followed by a partial correction in 2026. From 2024 through the current 2026 analysis, the median sale price increased approximately 18.4%, rising from $4,244 to $5,023 per acre, after a sharper 2025 peak of $6,469.
Because only three years of data were available for this analysis, this conclusion should be treated as more tentative than Randolph County's longer six-year trend, and it should be revisited as additional years of sales data become available.
Because the 2026 analysis is based on sales available through September 17, 2026, the final 2026 countywide median may change as additional agricultural land transactions occur during the remainder of the year.
Washington County agricultural land values have shown meaningful movement since 2024, rising sharply into 2025 before moderating in 2026.
Indiana Agricultural Land Base Rate
Each year, the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) certifies a statewide agricultural land base rate, used to calculate the assessed value of farmland for property tax purposes. For 2026, that certified base rate is $2,120 per acre. It is calculated using an income capitalization approach, a six-year rolling average of cash rent and farm operating income, not from actual sale prices. Individual parcels are then adjusted from this base rate according to soil productivity and other statutory factors. The sales figures below reflect what agricultural land in Washington County actually sold for on the open market, which is a different measure than the assessment base rate and should not be used interchangeably with it. See the DLGF's Agricultural Land Assessments page for the full certification.
2026 Analysis at a Glance
The 2026 agricultural land analysis, based on bare-ground sales reviewed through September 17, 2026, produced a countywide median sale price of approximately $5,023 per acre, representing approximately 1,026 acres of agricultural land across 21 qualifying transactions, after consolidating multi-parcel transactions and removing sales not considered representative of bare agricultural ground.
2026 is year-to-date through September 17, 2026. 2027–2029 values are trend-based projections.
Why "Median" Instead of "Average"
Randolph County's analysis reported a dollar-weighted average (total dollars ÷ total acres). Washington County has far fewer qualifying agricultural sales per year (21–29, compared to a larger sample in Randolph), which means a dollar-weighted average can be pulled sharply up or down by just one or two large-dollar transactions. The spreadsheet Sherry provided uses a median figure as its own summary statistic, and this page follows that same approach: the median is the middle value of all qualifying sales in a given year, and it is much less sensitive to a handful of outlier sales than a weighted average would be with this sample size.
| Year | Median Sale Price per Acre | Annual Change | Sales / Acres Analyzed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $4,244 | — | 24 sales / 1,546 acres |
| 2025 | $6,469 | +52.4% | 29 sales / 1,350 acres |
| 2026 YTD | $5,023 | -22.4% | 21 sales / 1,026 acres |
| 2027 (projected) | $5,464 | +8.8% | — |
| 2028 (projected) | $5,945 | +8.8% | — |
| 2029 (projected) | $6,467 | +8.8% | — |
The countywide median agricultural land sale price increased from $4,244 per acre in 2024 to $5,023 per acre in 2026, an increase of approximately $779 per acre, or 18.4%, despite the pullback seen this year. The sharpest movement occurred in 2025, when the median rose approximately 52.4% to reach $6,469 per acre before moderating.
Following the 2025 high, agricultural land sale prices have moderated. The median declined from $6,469 per acre in 2025 to $5,023 in 2026 (year-to-date through September 17), a decrease of approximately 22.4%, or roughly $1,446 per acre. Even after this correction, the 2026 median remains approximately 18.4% above the 2024 figure.
Agricultural land is different from many other real estate markets because the amount of land offered for sale in any given year can be relatively limited. Productive farmland is often held for long periods, and owners may have little incentive to sell unless there is an estate settlement, farm expansion opportunity, ownership transition, financial need, or other specific circumstance.
When relatively few properties are available while buyer demand remains strong, competition for available farmland can place upward pressure on sale prices. This limited supply, combined with the small number of qualifying sales each year, may help explain the sharp year-to-year swings seen in this data.
An Important Statistical Consideration
With only 21 to 29 qualifying sales per year, the annual county figure can be influenced more heavily by the particular properties that happen to sell during that year than it would be in a county with a larger sample. A relatively small number of highly productive or especially desirable farms can move the annual figure, while sales of lower-quality or less competitive properties can have the opposite effect. For this reason, changes in the annual figure should not automatically be interpreted as an identical percentage change in the value of every agricultural parcel in Washington County.
For planning purposes, a growth projection has been developed for 2027 through 2029. The projection uses approximately 8.8% annual growth, reflecting the compound rate between the 2024 median of $4,244 and the current 2026 median of $5,023. This two-year compound rate was used because only three years of data (2024–2026) were available, unlike Randolph County's page, which had a longer 2020–2026 baseline to draw from.
Approximately $5,464 per acre
Approximately $5,945 per acre
Approximately $6,467 per acre
The projection would place the countywide median above the current 2026 figure but still below the 2025 high by 2029.
Projections Are Not Guaranteed Values
Agricultural land prices may be influenced by the amount of land offered for sale, agricultural income, commodity markets, financing costs, interest rates, investor demand, farm expansion activity, property quality, location, and the characteristics of the particular farms available during each year. Given that this projection rests on only two years of comparison data, actual results in Washington County could vary from this trend more than a projection built on a longer baseline would.
The available evidence shows a meaningful rise in Washington County agricultural land values from 2024 into 2025, followed by a partial correction in 2026. From 2024 through the current 2026 analysis, the median sale price increased approximately 18.4%, rising from $4,244 to $5,023 per acre, after a sharper 2025 peak of $6,469.
Because only three years of data were available for this analysis, this conclusion should be treated as more tentative than Randolph County's longer six-year trend, and it should be revisited as additional years of sales data become available.
Because the 2026 analysis is based on sales available through September 17, 2026, the final 2026 countywide median may change as additional agricultural land transactions occur during the remainder of the year.