Although it’s still a few months off, the time of year is coming around again when Fulton County tax assessors will be hitting the streets to value properties. Even though this happens each and every year, homeowners always have questions about the tax assessment process in Fulton County. Additionally, there are usually new homeowners in the area who may not be familiar with how things work in Fulton County. For that reason, we thought it would be a good idea to provide a bit of a refresher course about how things work there.
How Does the Homestead Exemption Work?
Every year, there is a three-month window during which homeowners can apply for the homestead exemption. You can get the forms to do so by either visiting the Fulton County tax assessor’s office or by downloading them off of the tax assessor’s website. This three-month window extends from January 1st to April 1st of every year. It’s vital that if you’re seeking the exemption that you honor this window, as forms that are filed after April 1st will not secure you the homestead exemption for the calendar year that you’re in.
I Got My Assessment Notice; Is It My Bill?
The tax assessment notice that you’ll receive sometime over the summer is not the same as your property tax bill. The assessment notice only notifies you of the Fulton County tax assessor’s valuation of your property, as well as what you can expect to pay in property taxes based on the previous year’s millage rate. Your property tax bill will be mailed to your separately from this notice and will come from the tax commissioner and not the Fulton County tax assessor. This notice will inform you of the total property taxes you owe, reflecting the current year’s millage rate.
My Property Tax Bill is Too High; Can I Appeal?
Unfortunately, you are not allowed to appeal your tax bill – although, wouldn’t that be right if you could! You can however appeal the Fulton County tax assessor’s valuation of your property. That’s why it’s important that you keep an eye out for the notice when they’re sent out. Following your receipt of that notice, you will only have 45 days to appeal the valuation, which is what your property tax bill is based upon.
How Do I Appeal The Fulton County Tax Assessor’s Valuation?
To do this, you will need to file a written notice of your intent to appeal with the Board of Assessors. You can do this by mailing the Board of Assessors directly, or you can file your notice of appeal through their website, which is linked earlier.
Where To Go If You Have More Questions
Property valuations and taxes can be a confusing business, so it’s understandable if you have more than a few questions. The Fulton County tax assessor’s website is an excellent resource that should answer most of your questions. If you have more, you can always give them a call by dialing (404) 612-6440. You can also contact Atlanta's own property tax reduction firm, Fair Assessments.
