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 follows Georgia’s statewide property‑tax system, which is based on three key elements: market value, assessed value, and the millage rate. First, the County Assessor determines the market value of each parcel by comparing it to recent sales of similar properties. That market value is then multiplied by the county‑wide assessment ratio (typically 40 % for residential land and 55 % for improvements) to arrive at the assessed value. Finally, the assessed value is multiplied by the local millage rate—the amount of tax levied per $1,000 of assessed value.

For fiscal year 2024‑25, Franklin County’s combined millage rate (including county, school, and special district levies) is approximately 34.2 mills, or 3.42 %. This means a home with an assessed value of $150,000 would owe roughly $5,130 in property tax before any exemptions are applied.

Available Exemptions

Georgia offers several exemptions that can lower your taxable amount. Franklin County applies these statewide programs automatically when you qualify, but you must submit the appropriate application forms to the County Assessor.

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces the assessed value of a homeowner’s primary residence by up to $10,000, providing a $100‑$300 reduction in annual tax depending on the millage rate.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Residents aged 65 or older may receive an additional $10,000 exemption on the homestead portion, plus a possible $5,000 exemption for those who are totally disabled.
• Disability Exemption: Permanently and totally disabled individuals qualify for a $10,000 exemption on their primary residence, similar to the senior exemption.
• Veteran Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans who served at least 20 years, or who are permanently disabled due to service, may receive a $5,000 exemption for each qualifying veteran resident.

All exemptions are prorated if you acquire or sell property part‑way through the tax year.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Franklin County property taxes are payable in two installments:

• First installment: Due on October 1 for the portion of the tax bill covering the period October 1 – December 31.
• Second installment: Due on March 1 for the balance covering January 1 – September 30 of the following year.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the County Tax Commissioner’s office. If either installment is not received by the due date, a 10 % delinquency penalty is applied, followed by a 1 % per month interest charge until the balance is paid in full. Continued non‑payment may result in a tax lien and potential foreclosure.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• File a Petition: Submit a written petition to the Franklin County Board of Assessors within 30 days of the notice of assessment. Include supporting evidence such as recent comparable sales, an independent appraisal, or photos of property defects.
• Board Hearing: The Board will schedule a hearing, typically within 60 days of the petition. You may present your case in person or via a qualified representative.
• Decision & Further Review: The Board issues a written decision. If you disagree, you can appeal to the Superior Court of Franklin County within 30 days of that decision.

Promptly filing an appeal and providing clear, documented evidence greatly improves the chances of a favorable adjustment.