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Elbert County treasurer launches optional escrow monthly tax-payment service
Summary
Treasurer Sherry Hewlett described a new online escrow service (escrowtaxes.com) for taxpayers who do not have mortgage escrow, explaining estimated fees and collection timelines; the board later approved the treasurer's six‑month financial report.
Sherry Hewlett, Elbert County treasurer and public trustee, told the Board of County Commissioners the office is offering an optional monthly escrow payment service for taxpayers who do not have mortgage escrow.
Hewlett said the county partnered with a third-party vendor (Auto Agent) to offer an “escrow taxes” service that allows taxpayers to make monthly payments toward their property taxes based on last year’s tax amount (estimating a 3% increase) and adjust after the county’s certified rolls are available. She said the vendor collects monthly payments and remits amounts to the county before statutory due dates; any leftover balance at year end can be refunded or carried forward.
Hewlett described fees: $1 per transaction for ACH/e‑check or a 2.5% fee for debit/credit transactions. She said the treasurer’s office has informational flyers and website links and encouraged taxpayers to call or use the online portal; she reported the service is already posted on the treasurer’s website.
Later in the meeting the board approved the treasurer’s six‑month report for January–June 2025; the report was published as required and showed stable transfer and release activity with an increase in foreclosures and sales compared with the same period last year.
Ending: Hewlett said staff are available to help residents sign up and that the service is intended to ease large lump‑sum tax payments for residents who prefer a monthly plan.
