Commercial Property Income and Expense Reporting

One way we value commercial property is by using information reported by Montana commercial businesses during the property tax season each year, January 1 through April 15.

We do not use this information to value your property individually. We use the data to create a typical income and expense model for all properties of a certain type.

Purpose of Income and Expense Reporting

This information helps the department determine appropriate rent, expense, and capitalization rates used for property valuation. The department analyzes the data submitted to develop specific income models by property type, which are applied statewide in the mass appraisal process. Over- or under-reporting of a property’s income and expenses will not raise or lower that property’s market value.

Confidentiality and Reporting Requirement

  • The department keeps all income and expense information reported confidential, as provided in 15-8-120, MCA.
  • Reporting income and expense information is not required.
  • However, if commercial property owners do not provide the information, it may limit their ability to appeal their property value determined by the department for tax purposes. 15-1-303, MCA

Reporting Deadlines and Guidelines

Income and Expense Reporting Forms are due on April 15 each year.

When reporting income:

  • Do not include income associated with a business occupying the property.
  • If you occupy the property yourself, provide only the operating expenses.

Please complete the appropriate report for each property you own.

How to Submit a Report

Commercial property owners can report online or submit a paper reporting form.

Follow these steps to submit your income and expense information online.

Before you begin, have the letter we mailed to you nearby. You’ll need the property geocodes listed on the back.

  1. Go to the Income and Expense Survey Web Application.

  2. Select the appropriate income and expense survey for your property type.

  3. Sign in with your Montana State Single Sign-On (Okta) account.

    • If you already have an Okta account, enter your username and password, then click Sign In.
    • If you don’t have an account, click Sign Up to create one. 

    Need help setting up your Okta account? See the Okta sign-up instructions for step-by-step guidance.

    Note: You’ll need to sign in again after creating your account.

  4. Once signed in, your selected survey will appear. Follow the on-screen instructions and complete a separate survey for each commercial property geocode you own.

Important: When reporting income, please do not include income associated with a business occupying the property. If you occupy the property, provide only the operating expenses.

If you prefer to submit a paper form, download the appropriate income and expense survey provided below.

Submit a survey for each property you own. Before you begin, it will be beneficial to have the reporting letter mailed to you nearby as you will need the property geocodes listed on the back side of the letter.

Mail completed surveys to the local Department of Revenue field office servicing the county where your commercial property is located.

Income and Expense Reporting Forms