Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Geneva County

Geneva County follows the statewide Alabama property‑tax system, which is based on an annual assessment of a property's market value. Each July 1, the Geneva County Revenue Office (or a contracted appraiser) determines the fair‑market value of every real‑estate parcel and records it on the county’s assessment roll. This assessed value serves as the taxable base for the upcoming fiscal year.

Once the assessment is complete, the county applies the applicable millage rates to calculate the tax due. A millage rate is expressed in dollars per $1,000 of assessed value (one “mill” = $1 per $1,000). Geneva County’s overall rate is the sum of several components, including:

• Geneva County General Fund (road, bridge, and safety services)
• School District (Geneva County School System)
• City or town levies (e.g., Hartford, Samson)
• Special districts such as fire‑protective or water‑supply districts

For example, if the total millage rate for a parcel is 12.5 mills and the assessed value is $120,000, the tax bill would be calculated as follows: $120,000 ÷ 1,000 = 120; 120 × 12.5 = $1,500. The estimator tool on this page uses the most recent rates published by the Geneva County Board of Revenue Commissioners.

Available Exemptions

Alabama offers several property‑tax exemptions that can lower the taxable base in Geneva County. Homeowners should review eligibility each year, as qualifying criteria may change.

• Homestead Exemption: A $500 reduction in assessed value for owner‑occupied residential property.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents age 65 or older may receive a $1,000 exemption (or a higher amount if the property is valued under $50,000) provided the income threshold is met.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with a qualifying disability can claim a $500 exemption, similar to the homestead credit.
• Veteran Exemptions:
  • Disabled veterans receive a $1,000 exemption for the first $10,000 of assessed value.
  • Surviving spouses of veterans killed in action may claim the same exemption.

To apply, submit the appropriate exemption form to the Geneva County Revenue Office by the February 15 deadline. Supporting documentation (e.g., proof of age, disability rating, or veteran status) must accompany the request.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Geneva County property taxes are due in two installments. Paying on time avoids interest and penalties, while the county offers several convenient payment methods.

• First Installment: Due November 1 (covers the first half of the fiscal year).
• Second Installment: Due May 1 (covers the second half).
• Late Payments: A 10 % penalty is assessed if a payment is not received by the due date, plus a $25 administrative fee.
• Interest: Unpaid balances accrue interest at the statutory rate of 1 % per month.
• Payment Options: Online via the county’s secure portal, by mail with a check or money order, or in person at the Geneva County Revenue Office during business hours.

Homeowners may qualify for a discount if the full year's tax is paid by the November 1 deadline; contact the Revenue Office for details.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑assessed, Geneva County provides a formal appeals process.

• Step 1 – Review the Notice: Assessment notices arrive in late August. Verify the property description, land and improvement values, and any applicable exemptions.
• Step 2 – File a Petition: Submit a written petition to the Geneva County Board of Revenue Commissioners within 30 days of the notice date. Include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or photographs showing property condition.
• Step 3 – Attend a Hearing: The Board will schedule a hearing, typically within 45 days of filing. You may present your case personally or be represented by an attorney.
• Step 4 – Decision: The Board issues a written decision, which becomes effective immediately. If you disagree, you may request a review by the Alabama Board of Revenue or pursue litigation in circuit court.

Keeping timely records and understanding the criteria used by the county appraiser (e.g., square footage, age of improvements, market trends) greatly improves the likelihood of a successful appeal.