Already Enrolled in Montana’s Homestead Program? Here’s What You Should Know!

If you’ve already enrolled your home under Montana’s new Homestead or Long-Term Rental classification — great job!

Montana’s 2026 property tax changes significantly shift how properties are taxed, and being properly classified could mean substantial savings compared to non-qualified properties.

What Changed in 2026?

Montana now separates residential properties into two primary tax categories:

Reduced, Tiered Rate (Must Be Enrolled):

• Primary residences (lived in 7+ months per year)
  
  
• Long-term rentals (28+ day leases for 7+ months per year)
  
  

Higher Tax Rate (Non-Qualified Properties):

• Second homes
  
  
• Vacation properties
  
  
• Short-term rentals (Airbnb/VRBO)
  
  
• Properties not properly enrolled
  
  

This change shifts more of the tax burden to non-primary residences and short-term properties while protecting full-time homeowners and long-term landlords.

Even If You’re Enrolled, Here’s What to Double-Check:

✔ Confirm your classification through Montana Cadastral or your county assessor at:

CLICK HERE - MONTANA CADASTRAL
✔ Verify your enrollment using your properties GeoCode at: CLICK HERE - MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE

✔ Review your next tax notice after March 1 to ensure correct classification

Mistakes can happen — and correcting them early matters.

Please Share This With Other Montana Homeowners

Many homeowners are unaware that enrollment is required to qualify for the reduced rate.

If you have friends, family, or neighbors who own property in Montana, consider forwarding this information to them. Missing enrollment could mean paying a significantly higher tax rate. 

We believe in keeping our friends informed and we are here to be your trusted resource long after closing!

If you’d like us to review your enrollment status or walk through how these changes may impact you, complete the quick form below and schedule your 15-minute review with our team.

🗓️ Reserve Your Property Tax Enrollment Appointment