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

Property taxes in Franklin County are determined by two primary factors: the assessed value of your property and the millage rate. The assessment process is conducted by the Franklin County Assessment Office, which establishes the "base year" value of your real estate. This assessed value is not necessarily the current market price, but rather a value based on the county’s predetermined ratio applied to the property's worth.

Once the assessment is finalized, local taxing authorities—including the county, your local municipality, and your school district—set their respective millage rates. A "mill" represents one dollar of tax for every $1,000 of assessed value. Your total property tax bill is calculated by multiplying your property’s assessed value by the sum of the county, municipal, and school district millage rates.

Available Exemptions

Pennsylvania law provides several programs to help specific groups of homeowners reduce their property tax burden. It is important to note that these exemptions often require annual applications and proof of eligibility:

• Homestead Exclusion: This program reduces the assessed value of your primary residence, thereby lowering the school district tax portion of your bill. You must reside in the property as your permanent home to qualify.
• Senior Citizen Tax Relief: The state-funded Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program offers rebates to eligible seniors (65+), widows/widowers (50+), and people with disabilities (18+) based on income levels.
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans who are 100% permanently disabled due to a service-connected injury may be eligible for a full exemption from real estate taxes on their primary residence.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Franklin County property tax bills are typically mailed in early spring. The payment schedule is generally structured to provide incentives for early settlement:

• Discount Period: Payments made within the first two months of the bill issuance date are usually eligible for a 2% discount.
• Face Period: Taxes paid after the discount period but before the final deadline are due at the "face" or base amount.
• Penalty Period: Payments received after the specified deadline are subject to a penalty, typically 10%.

If taxes remain unpaid after the end of the calendar year, they are considered delinquent and may be turned over to the County Tax Claim Bureau, which can lead to additional interest, administrative fees, and, in extreme cases, tax sales.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property’s assessed value is inaccurate or does not reflect its market value relative to similar properties, you have the right to file a formal appeal. The appeal process in Franklin County begins by filing a petition with the Board of Assessment Appeals during the designated filing window, which typically closes in early fall. You will need to provide evidence to support your claim, such as recent appraisals, sales data of comparable homes in your neighborhood, or documentation of property defects. A hearing will be scheduled where you may present your case to the Board before a final decision is rendered.