Appealing Your Tax Assessment

How to Appeal Your Property Tax Bill: A Step-by-Step Guide from Team Stephens Orren Shepherd

Tis the season, check your mailboxes.  Fulton County Tax Assessments are out!

Check Your Property Tax Assessment Letter

When you receive your property tax assessment letter, take a close look at the timestamp. This timestamp marks the beginning of a critical 45-day window within which you must file your appeal. Yes, you read that right—45 days! Acting promptly is essential to ensure you don’t miss this deadline.

Why the 45-Day Timeline Matters

Filing your appeal within this timeframe is a legal requirement in Georgia. Missing the deadline means losing your opportunity to challenge your tax assessment and potentially reduce your tax burden.

Steps to Appeal Your Property Tax Bill

1. Gather Supporting Evidence:

   • Collect any evidence that supports your claim for a lower assessment. This may include recent appraisals, comparable sales data, or discrepancies in the property description. Strong supporting documentation can significantly strengthen your case.

2. Consult with Professionals:

   • Reach out to Team Stephens Orren Shepherd for assistance with comparables to support your case. We also have lawyers to refer you to who specialize in property tax appeals. They can provide valuable guidance, help you navigate the process, and ensure your appeal is presented effectively.

3. File Your Appeal:

   • Once you've gathered your evidence and sought appropriate advice, it's time to file your appeal.  Appeal forms can be found on the Tax Assessors website, but the most efficient way to to appeal is online.  You will upload supporting documents and photos and receive a confirmation email with filing ID number. If you choose to file manually you will not be able to access your appeal thru the online portal. 

*****If your appeal has not been resolved when tax bills are mailed, you must pay the temporary bill to avoid penalties and fees. Once your appeal is resolved, the tax bill will be recalculated based on the final value.

Your Right as a Homeowner

Remember, appealing your property tax bill is your right as a homeowner. Taking action within the designated timeframe is crucial to protect your interests and potentially achieve a fair assessment.

Contact Us for Help

Please utilize Team Stephens Orren Shepherd as a resource. We are here to help you find comparables and review your assessment for any potential discrepancies.

Anna, KC, and Ashley