Decoding your annual Clayton County Property Tax Notice can initially feel overwhelming, but understanding its key components is crucial for every homeowner. This guide will walk you through each section of your notice—explaining the assessed value, how millage rates are applied, the impact of any homestead exemptions, and the appeal process if you believe your valuation is incorrect.
By demystifying this important document, you'll gain clarity on your tax obligations and be empowered to take action if needed.
🗂️ 1. Property Information
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Property Owner & Address
Confirms the current legal owner and property address. Always verify accuracy. -
Parcel Identification Number (PIN)
A unique identifier assigned by the Clayton County Tax Assessor’s Office. Useful when filing appeals or looking up property data. -
Legal Description
A more technical, legal description of your property—important for official records.
📊 2. Valuation Information
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Current Fair Market Value (FMV)
The Assessor’s estimate of what your property would sell for on the open market as of January 1 of the current year. This is the most important figure to review for accuracy. -
Previous Year’s FMV (if listed)
Compare it to the current FMV. A sharp increase could warrant closer investigation or appeal. -
Assessed Value
In Georgia, residential properties are assessed at 40% of FMV.
Formula: FMV × 0.40 = Assessed Value
This value is used to determine your property tax before exemptions. -
Assessment Date
Typically January 1. The valuation reflects your property’s condition and market value as of this date.
🏡 3. Exemption Information
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Homestead Exemption(s)
If eligible, this section will show exemptions applied (e.g., basic homestead, senior, or disabled). These reduce your taxable value. -
Taxable Value
Calculated as: Assessed Value – Exemptions
This is the figure your final tax bill is based on.
✅ Tip: If an exemption is missing, contact the Tax Assessor's Office. You may have missed the April 1 application deadline for the current year, but you can still prepare for next year.
💰 4. Estimated Tax Information
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Estimated Millage Rate
This rate is per $1,000 of taxable value and is set by:-
Clayton County Board of Commissioners
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Clayton County Board of Education
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Your city, if applicable
The notice may list rates from the prior year.
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Estimated Tax Due
Based on your current values and estimated millage rates. This is not a final bill—rates may change before your fall tax bill is issued.
⚖️ 5. Appeal Information
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Right to Appeal
Georgia law allows you to appeal the FMV within 45 days of the notice date. -
Appeal Deadline
Printed clearly on your notice. This deadline is strictly enforced—miss it and you forfeit your right to appeal for that tax year. -
Appeal Process Options:
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Appeal to the Clayton County Board of Tax Assessors
Initial review and adjustment opportunity. -
Board of Equalization (BOE)
If you’re unsatisfied with the Assessor’s response. -
Arbitration
A third-party appraisal route. -
Superior Court
The final step in the local appeals process.
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Filing Instructions
The notice will explain how and where to file—either online through the Clayton County portal or by mail using the Georgia PT-311A form.
📅 6. Key Dates
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Assessment Date: January 1 of the current tax year
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Appeal Deadline: 45 days from the notice date (printed on the notice)
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Exemption Application Deadline: Typically April 1 (for next year)
🧭 What You Should Do
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✅ Verify all property information
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📈 Evaluate the Fair Market Value (FMV)
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Use recent sales of similar homes in your area
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Look up comparable properties on the Clayton County Tax Assessor's website
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📉 Check that the assessed value is 40% of FMV
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🏡 Confirm all exemptions are correctly applied
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📅 Mark the appeal deadline on your calendar
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📎 Gather evidence if you plan to appeal:
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Recent comparable sales
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Photos of property condition
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Appraisals or repair estimates
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