Functions of DeKalb County Tax Assessor for Taxpayers’ Benefit

Posted by Jill Noelle Olandria on Oct 15, 2015 11:30:00 AM

Understandably, many property owners think of the DeKalb County Tax Assessor and his staff as the agents of evil government.  These county officials are, after all, the people responsible for the assessment of the taxable values of real property in their jurisdiction, said taxable value of which are the basis for the estimated property taxes – and we all know the reluctance many taxpayers have about doing their civic duty and parting with their money. 

But such a mindset may not necessarily be true. You can look at the tax assessor’s office with a different perspective – that of a helpful agency that can provide valuable assistance in your desire to perform your civic duty while also practicing good financial management.  Here are the five functions that the DeKalb County Tax Assessor performs that, in turn, you can tap into for your own benefit. 

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#1 Property Tax Appraisals

You can use the fair market values determined by the tax assessor in estimating the most profitable selling price for your property.  You can request a copy of your real estate property’s most recent appraisal from the office, which can then be used for your own legal purposes.  You may even decide on the types of home improvements that can provide the best value for your money upon resale based on the assessor’s property record card.  

#2 Property Re-appraisals

And speaking of home improvements, keep in mind that the DeKalb County Tax Assessor and his authorized appraisers will conduct annual inspections so any renovations will be noted.  The home improvements will be considered in determining the current fair market value of the property that, in turn, you can use as basis for determining your own estimate for its selling value.  

#3 Property Tax Appeals

The matter of appraisal is partly a subjective process as the appraisers must use their own judgment, as honed from years of education, training and work experience, in determining the fair market values of the properties.  As a result you will may believe that your property has been unfairly over-assessed do to this subjectivity and your estimated tax is unreasonably high. 

Fortunately, you can always appeal the appraisal value as determined by the DeKalb County Tax Assessor.  You will be given 45 days from the date of the annual notice of assessment to file your written appeal, a process that can work in your favor when you are well-prepared for it.  You are then well-advised to contact Fair Assessments for professional advice on the matter.  

#4 Homestead Exemptions

Ask the assessor or his staff for the application form for the homestead exemption. When approved, you can enjoy a modest property tax break for your property. You can qualify when the property is used as your primary residence, or for veterans, or for green space, or for farmland. 

#5 Payment of Property Taxes

Request the assessor and his staff for assistance in the payment of your taxes, such as asking for a copy of the tax assessment and the tax bill as well as the arrangement of a tax payment plan. Payment of the Taxes should be at the tax commissioner’s office.

Indeed, start thinking of the DeKalb County Tax Assessor as your tax friend and you will benefit from it. 

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