Fulton County clarifies property assessment notices and tax bill timelines

The recent government meeting in Milton, Fulton County, Georgia, on June 23, 2025, focused on clarifying the confusion surrounding property tax assessment notices sent to homeowners. Residents expressed concerns about receiving these notices in June, rather than the expected tax bills in the fall.

Officials explained that the documents mailed out are assessment notices, which indicate the assessed value of properties, not actual tax bills. The tax bills will be issued later in the year after local governing bodies, including the board of commissioners, the board of education, and the Milton City Council, finalize their millage rates. These rates are essential for calculating the taxes owed to each jurisdiction.

Homeowners were informed that they will receive multiple tax bills: one from Fulton County for county and school taxes, and another from the City of Milton for city taxes. The county assesses property values based on various factors, including location, square footage, upgrades, and recent home sales.

It was emphasized that the assessment notice does not reflect the final tax amount due. The county uses the previous year's millage rate as a placeholder, and important exemption data is not included in the assessment notice. This means that even if a homeowner's assessed value increases, it does not automatically lead to a proportional increase in their tax bill, as the final millage rate and any applicable homestead exemptions will also play a significant role.

Residents were reminded that if they have questions or disagree with their assessed value, they can contact their assessor, whose information is provided on the notice. They also have the right to appeal the assessment, with a deadline of 45 days from the issuance of the notices.

This meeting aimed to enhance understanding of the property tax assessment process and ensure that residents are informed about their rights and responsibilities regarding property taxes in Milton.