Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Crawford County

In Crawford County, property taxes are levied on the assessed value of real and personal property. Each year the County Tax Assessor’s Office conducts a systematic assessment, using the Georgia Uniform Property Tax System (UPTS) to estimate market value as of January 1. The assessed value is then multiplied by the applicable millage rate—expressed in mills, where one mill equals one‑tenth of one percent (0.001) of assessed value. For example, a property assessed at $150,000 with a combined county‑wide millage of 22.3 mills generates an annual tax bill of $3,345 (150,000 × 0.0223).

Millage rates in Crawford County are set by several taxing authorities, including the County Board of Commissioners, the school system, the city of Martinez (if applicable), and special districts such as fire or water authorities. Each entity votes on its portion of the rate during the annual budget cycle, and the combined rate is published on the County’s website prior to the billing period.

Available Exemptions

Crawford County follows state‑wide exemption statutes that can significantly lower a homeowner’s tax burden. The most common exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: A $2,000 reduction for owner‑occupied residences, automatically applied when the property is listed as a homestead on the deed.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: For residents age 65 or older with an annual income of $10,000 or less, an additional $2,000 exemption is available.
• Disability Exemption: Qualifying individuals with a permanent physical or mental disability may claim a $2,000 exemption, provided they meet Georgia’s eligibility criteria.
• Veteran Exemptions:
  • Veterans with 100% service‑connected disability receive a full exemption on the portion of the property used as a primary residence.
  • Veterans receiving a pension can claim a $3,000 exemption, regardless of disability status.

To receive any exemption, owners must submit a completed application to the Crawford County Tax Assessor’s Office by March 1 of the tax year. Supporting documentation—such as proof of age, income, disability rating, or veteran status—must accompany the request.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Crawford County are billed annually in two installments:

• First Installment: Due November 1, covering the fiscal year July 1‑June 30.
• Second Installment: Due March 1 of the following year.

Homeowners may also elect a quarterly payment plan by contacting the Tax Collector’s Office before the first due date. Late payments incur a 10 % penalty plus interest accruing at the legal rate, and the County may place a tax lien on the property. Unpaid taxes after a 90‑day grace period can result in tax foreclosure proceedings.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• Step 1 – Review the Notice: Assessments are mailed each April. Verify the property description, acreage, and improvements.
• Step 2 – File a Formal Protest: Submit a written protest to the Crawford County Board of Equalization by the deadline listed on the notice (typically within 30 days of mailing). Include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or photos of the property.
• Step 3 – Attend the Hearing: A hearing is scheduled within 45 days of filing. Present your case, answer questions, and provide any additional documentation.
• Step 4 – Decision & Further Review: The Board issues a written decision. If unsatisfied, you may appeal to the Georgia Superior Court within 30 days of the Board’s ruling.

Time is of the essence—missing any deadlines may lock in the original assessment for that tax year. For assistance, consider consulting a local real‑estate attorney or a qualified appraiser familiar with Crawford County’s market conditions.