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CALL FOR ACTION - DO NOT LET YOURSELF BE OVERTAXED!
It is everywhere in the news today - the recession continues, the unemployment rate is high, and real property values have lowered over the past year. Local governments collect taxes from property owners based on value. Property taxation is based on the concept that persons should share the cost of government according to their ability to pay. In the property tax system, ability to pay is measured by the value of property. A quick review of your property tax bill will indicate the amounts you pay to your City, County and School Board for the services they provide.
The County Board of Assessors determines the fair market value of all real and personal property in the county. The Board of Assessors determines the estimate of property value, and sets the 'Appraised Value' of property. The board then applies the statutory 40% to that appraisal to generate the 'Assessed Value' on which taxes are based.
With the recent property value decline, it is more important than ever to review the value of your home or other real property. If you believe your value is too high, now is the time to act.
Real Estate property owners in Georgia may request an adjustment of the 2009 assessed value of their property from January 1 to April 1, 2010. The property owner must file a return of value with their County Board of Assessors. In Fulton County, the form for filing a return is available at the Board of Assessors site: www.fultonassessor.org. Useful information about your property value and those of comparable value in your community are also available at the Fulton County Board of Assessors website.
If the Board of Assessors does not adjust the assessment, the property owner may then file an appeal. Most appeals are heard by the Boards of Equalization. However, other arbitration options may be viewed on the Board of Assessors website.
Information about Fulton County property tax bills, including historical city, county and school taxes, millage rates and exemptions can be found at the website of the Fulton County Tax Commissioner - www.fultoncountytaxes.org.
There are a variety of property tax exemptions available to qualifying homeowners, and these exemptions vary from city to city, and from county to county. Homestead exemptions, a circuit breaker credit, assessment freezes, senior exemptions and low income exemptions are examples of the many tax relief opportunities. Please contact your county Board of Assessors, or visit their website, and take advantage of any and all property exemptions available to you. In most cases, you must apply for the exemption, and deadlines must be met to receive the exemption in the current tax year.
My office stands ready to assist Fulton County property owners with questions on property values and property taxation. Please call us at 404-612-8213. We are here to help.
