Property Tax Calculation Certification

The independent study materials below provide online instruction on how property taxes are calculated. They give a concise introduction to the basic terms and methodology for calculating property taxes, and include examples and problems that give thorough instruction on the step-by-step computations.

You may work at your own pace through an interactive computer-based training (CBT) and in workbook format. Click one of the links below to begin. The times provided are approximate.

While the workbook is updated for taxes payable in 2020, the CBT modules were most recently updated for taxes payable 2018. There are no differences in the mechanics of how property taxes are calculated between 2018 and 2020, though you will want to use the class rate table for 2018 and any other specific rates provided within the CBT modules while working through those problems.

Property Tax Calculation Workbook for Taxes Payable 2020 (4 to 5 hours)

Taxes Payable 2020 Class Rate Table

Taxes Payable 2018 Class Rate Table

CBT - Module 1: Property Tax Process Overview and Determine Taxable Market Value (30 minutes)

CBT - Module 2: Calculate Rates and Calculate Tax (45 minutes)

CBT - Module 3: Credits, Computing Taxes, and Comparison Examples (25 minutes)

You must complete and pass an exam if you are studying the materials with the goal of attaining certification as described above. If you study the materials only for informational purposes, testing is not necessary.

The exam is online only. We highly encourage you to find a location with a strong Internet connection on a laptop or desktop computer (not a mobile device) to take the exam. You must use Internet Explorer 9 or 11 to take the exam.

You must register to take the online exam. The deadline to register for the 2020 exam is December 19, 2020. After you are enrolled, you can take the exam at any time through December 31, 2020.

Register for the Property Tax Calculation Exam

Property Tax Calculation Exam Instructions

Once you register, we'll email your username, password, and instructions within three business days. If you do not receive the email in that time, contact us at PropTax.Admin@state.mn.us.

How do I access the exam?

You will be sent instructions when you are enrolled in the exam.

What material is covered in the exam?

Any material in the Property Tax Calculation Workbook may be on the exam.

What resources may I use during the exam?

You may use the Property Tax Calculation Workbook, Auditor/Treasurer Manual.

How long does the exam take?

You should be able to complete the exam within an hour. We highly recommend you take the exam during a time when you have a full free hour and distractions are limited.

Is the exam pass/fail?

Yes. You need to achieve a score of 85% or higher to successfully pass the exam.

Is there a cost?

No. There is no cost to take the exam.

Certification in property tax calculation must be renewed every four years. The following list of certified individuals is updated at the beginning of January, April, July, and October when there are new certifications.

Property Tax Calculation - Certified Individuals