Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Franklin County

Franklin County determines the taxable value of every real‑estate parcel through an annual assessment performed by the Florida Department of Revenue. The assessor estimates the market value of the property as of January 1st, then applies the Florida “ad valorem” formula: the taxable value equals the assessed value minus any exemptions you qualify for. Once the taxable value is set, the county multiplies it by the applicable millage rates. A mill is one‑tenth of one percent (0.001), so a 15‑mill rate means $15 in tax per $1,000 of taxable value. In Franklin County the total millage includes the County Commission, School Board, and special district levies (e.g., fire, road, or water‑service districts). The combined rate typically ranges from 14 to 16 mills, but you can view the exact breakdown on the county’s tax collector website.

Available Exemptions

Florida offers several exemptions that directly reduce your taxable value. You may claim any combination that applies to you:

• Homestead Exemption: Up to $50,000 off the assessed value for your primary residence. The first $25,000 applies to all property tax types, while the second $25,000 applies only to non‑school taxes.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 + can receive an additional exemption of $5,000 (or $10,000 in certain designated “portions” of the county) on the assessed value.
• Disability Exemption: Qualifying physically or mentally disabled persons may claim a $5,000 exemption, with an extra $5,000 for those classified as “portions” or “partial‑handicapped.”
• Veteran Exemptions:
  • Disabled veterans receive a $5,000 exemption, plus an additional $5,000 for each 10% of service‑connected disability (up to 100%).
  • Surviving spouses of veterans killed or missing in action qualify for a $5,000 exemption.

All exemptions must be applied for through the Franklin County Property Appraiser’s office, usually by March 1 of the tax year. Supporting documentation (e.g., proof of age, disability rating, or military service) is required.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Franklin County follows the statewide tax bill calendar:

• First Installment: Due November 1; a $25 discount is available if paid by the 10th of the month.
• Second Installment: Due March 1 of the following year; a $25 discount applies if paid by March 10.
• Late Payments: A statutory penalty of 2 % per month (or part thereof) accrues after the due date, plus interest at the county‑set rate.
• Delinquent Status: If the balance remains unpaid after May 1, the tax collector may initiate a tax deed sale, potentially resulting in loss of the property.

Taxpayers may choose to pay the full amount in one lump sum, or split the bill into the two installments. Payment options include online via the county’s portal, mailed check, or in‑person at the Tax Collector’s Office.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate, you have the right to contest it. Follow these steps:

• Review the Notice of Value: Sent in May; it shows the assessed value and the deadline to file an appeal (typically within 30 days).
• File a Petition: Submit a written petition to the Franklin County Property Appraiser’s Office before the deadline. Include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or photographs of property conditions.
• Attend a Hearing: The appraiser will schedule a informal hearing where you can present your case. Be prepared to answer questions and provide documentation.
• Further Review: If the outcome is unsatisfactory, you may appeal to the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) within 30 days of the appraiser’s decision. The VAB holds a formal hearing and renders a final determination.

Throughout the process, maintain copies of all correspondence and meet every deadline. Successful appeals can substantially lower your tax bill, especially when paired with applicable exemptions.