Montana’s 2026 property-tax law cuts primary residence rates but hikes taxes on second homes by 68%. Governor Greg Gianforte signed legislation effective in 2026 that lowers property taxes on qualifying primary residences by about 18% while sharply increasing taxes on second homes and inherited cabins. Montana offers no special exemptions for family cabins, meaning inherited properties like a $780,000 Flathead Lake cabin owned by a Minneapolis retiree now face substantially higher tax bills. The state’s Department of Revenue projects these changes, and enrollment for the 2027 homestead tax year is open through March 1, 2027, with homestead status verifiable at homestead.mt.gov. Montana’s tax law aligns with approaches in states such as Florida and California, emphasizing primary residence occupancy.