Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Screven County

In Screven County, Georgia, the property tax system is designed to fund local services such as schools, roads, and emergency response. The process begins with annual assessments conducted by the Screven County Tax Commissioner’s Office. The assessor reviews property records, appraises market values, and records the assessed value on the county’s official database. Once the assessed value is established, the county applies the authorized millage rates—expressed in mills, where one mill equals one‑thousandth of one percent—to calculate the tax due. These rates are set by the Screven County Board of Commissioners and combined with state, city, and special district rates to determine the final dollar amount. The annual tax bill is mailed to property owners by late January, with the full amount due by October 15 for tax year 2024.

Available Exemptions

Property owners in Screven County can reduce their taxable value through several exemptions common statewide:

• Homestead Exemption – Residents who own and occupy their primary residence receive a $2,000 reduction in assessed value.
• Senior Citizen Exemption – Eligible citizens aged 62 and older can claim up to a $6,000 value reduction if they meet income and residency requirements.
• Disability Exemption – Property owners with a certified disability may receive a $6,000 exemption, provided they file the required documentation.
• Veteran Exemption – Veterans who served in the armed forces may receive a $3,000 exemption if they possess a valid DD‑214 or service record.

All exemptions must be applied for through the Screven County Tax Commissioner’s Office before the bill is finalized, usually by the end of March each year. Detailed eligibility criteria are posted on the county’s official website.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

The Screven County tax authority offers a few payment options to accommodate taxpayers:

• Single Full Payment – Due by October 15. Paying by this date avoids any penalty or interest.
• Two Installments – The first installment, due by January 13, is 75% of the full amount. The second installment, due by October 15, covers the remaining 25%. These amounts are calculated based on the year’s bill and do not change with changes in assessment or rates.
• Three Installment Plan (Late Payment) – For taxpayers who miss the January due date, the county permits a three‑installment plan starting February 13, with equal payments every fifteen days until the tax is paid in full. Each missed installment incurs late fees, and accumulated interest may be assessed retroactively.

Payments can be made online, by mail, or in person at the Screven County Tax Office. If payment is not received by the due date, the county will add a 5% late fee and will charge interest at the state statutory rate. Persistent non‑payment may result in a tax lien and eventual sale of the property.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been over‑valued, you have the right to file an appeal. The appeal process in Screven County is straightforward:

• File a Petition – Submit a written appeal with the Screven County Tax Commissioner’s Office within 60 days of receiving your assessment notice. The petition must include any supporting documents such as recent purchase agreements, comparable sales data, or appraisals.
• Pre‑Hearing Review – The Tax Commissioner’s Office will review the petition and decide whether to grant a hearing. If the appeal is denied, you may still request a formal hearing.
• Hearing – A hearing is scheduled in the Screven County Circuit Court or a local board. Bring all evidence, and consider obtaining a licensed appraiser’s report to strengthen your case.
• Decision & Appeal of the Decision – The court or board will issue a written decision. If you are unsatisfied, you may appeal the decision to the Georgia Superior Court within 30 days, providing any new evidence.

Timely filing and thorough documentation are key to a successful appeal. For guidance, contact the Screven County Appraisal and Tax Services Department, which offers free assistance to taxpayers navigating the appeal process.