Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Fayette County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

Welcome to the Fayette County Property Tax Estimator. Understanding how your property taxes are calculated, what exemptions you may qualify for, and how to stay on schedule can save you money and avoid penalties. Use this guide to navigate the county’s system confidently.

How Property Tax Works in Fayette County

Every year the Fayette County Revenue Office conducts a market‑value assessment of all real‑estate parcels. The market value represents the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller under normal conditions. This amount is then “equalized” by applying a state‑wide factor (currently 0.53) to produce the **Assessed Value**, which is the base used for tax calculations.

The tax bill is derived by multiplying the assessed value by the combined **millage rate**. One mill equals one‑tenth of one percent (or $1 per $1,000 of assessed value). For 2024 the total millage for most residential properties is approximately 31.5 mills, broken down as follows:

• Fayette County – 10.0 mills
• Local city/town (if applicable) – 8.5 mills
• School district – 12.0 mills
• Special districts (e.g., fire, sewer) – 1.0 mill

Example: A home assessed at $75,000 would owe roughly $2,362 in property taxes ($75,000 ÷ 1,000 × 31.5).

Available Exemptions

Alabama law provides several exemptions that reduce the taxable portion of your assessed value. You must apply for most of them; the homestead exemption is automatically applied for owner‑occupied homes.

• Homestead Exemption – $2,000 reduction for properties used as the owner's primary residence.
• Senior Citizen Exemption – Residents 65 years or older may receive an additional $4,000 reduction (or $10,000 if the senior’s income is below the state threshold).
• Disability Exemption – Persons with a qualifying disability qualify for up to $6,000 off the assessed value.
• Veteran Exemption – Honorable‑discharged veterans (or their surviving spouses) can obtain a $10,000 exemption; active‑duty military may qualify for a $2,000 exemption.

All exemptions must be filed with the Fayette County Revenue Office by March 31 of the tax year. Supporting documentation (proof of age, disability, military service, etc.) is required.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Fayette County divides the tax bill into two equal installments:

• First installment – Due November 1 (or the first business day after the 1st) and considered delinquent after December 31.
• Second installment – Due March 1 and delinquent after April 30.

If you wish to pay the full amount early, you may do so at any time without penalty. Late payments incur a 10 % penalty on the overdue portion, plus interest at a rate of 1 % per month until paid in full. Persistent delinquency may result in a tax lien, tax foreclosure, or the loss of certain exemptions.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to appeal:

1. Notice of Assessment – Review the mailed notice (usually sent in April). Note the assessment date.
2. File a Petition – Submit a written appeal to the Fayette County Board of Equalization within 30 days of the notice. Include supporting evidence such as recent sales of comparable properties, an independent appraisal, or evidence of damage.
3. Schedule a Hearing – The Board will set a hearing date, typically within 60 days of filing. Attend the hearing and present your case.
4. Decision & Further Review – The Board issues a written decision. If you disagree, you may request a review by the Alabama Board of Tax Review within 30 days of the decision.

Timely filing and thorough documentation are crucial for a successful appeal. Many homeowners find that a modest adjustment (e.g., 5‑10 % reduction) is possible when comparable data is presented clearly.

Use the calculator on this page to estimate your tax liability after accounting for exemptions, and refer back to this guide whenever you have questions about assessment, payment, or appeals.