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

In Franklin County, property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your property and the local tax rate, often referred to as the tax levy. Each year, local assessors determine the market value of properties within their jurisdiction. New York State law requires that assessments be uniform; therefore, your property is assigned an equalization rate to ensure it reflects a fair percentage of full market value.

The total tax bill is determined by multiplying the taxable assessed value by the combined tax rates of your county, town, school district, and any special districts (such as fire or water). Because these rates are set by different governing bodies, your total tax liability is the sum of these individual components. It is important to note that even if your assessment remains stable, your tax bill may fluctuate based on annual changes in the budgets approved by these local taxing authorities.

Available Exemptions

New York State offers several property tax exemptions designed to provide financial relief to eligible homeowners. These exemptions reduce the taxable assessed value of your property, thereby lowering your annual tax burden. Common exemptions include:

• STAR (School Tax Relief): Available to eligible homeowners for their primary residence. The Basic STAR exemption is for households with incomes below a specific threshold, while the Enhanced STAR program provides larger benefits for senior citizens aged 65 and older with qualifying incomes.
• Senior Citizens Exemption: A partial exemption for homeowners aged 65 or older who meet specific income requirements.
• Disability Exemption: Available to persons with disabilities who meet income and ownership criteria.
• Veterans Exemptions: Various exemptions exist for honorably discharged veterans, including those who served during wartime or received expeditionary medals, as well as those with service-connected disabilities.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills in Franklin County are generally mailed in late December or early January. While specific deadlines can vary by town, taxes are typically due by January 31st without penalty. Many municipalities offer an installment plan, allowing property owners to pay in multiple segments, provided the first payment is made by the initial deadline.

Failure to pay by the designated due dates results in the accrual of interest and penalties, which increase monthly. If taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to tax foreclosure proceedings. Always check your specific town tax bill for the exact due dates and instructions on where to remit payment.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property assessment is inaccurate or inequitable, you have the right to challenge it. The process begins by discussing your assessment with your local assessor. If you are unable to reach an agreement, you may file a formal complaint with the Board of Assessment Review (BAR) during "Grievance Day," which usually occurs on the fourth Tuesday in May. You must provide evidence, such as recent sales of comparable properties, to support your claim that your assessment exceeds the market value. If dissatisfied with the BAR's decision, you may seek further review through Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR) or a judicial proceeding.