Residents of Chattooga County will notice significant changes in their upcoming property tax assessment notices this year, a direct result of the newly implemented Georgia House Bill 92. The legislation aims to improve transparency and provide property owners with earlier notification regarding potential tax obligations.

Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton has detailed the impact of the new law, emphasizing a key change: the mandatory inclusion of a preliminary millage rate on assessment notices. “Previously, assessment notices only included the prior year’s millage rate,” explained Hampton. “Now, we are required to estimate and certify a preliminary rate 15 days before those notices are mailed, which typically occurs in mid-June or July.” This means residents will receive an early indication of their potential property tax rate, offering a preliminary overview of their possible tax obligations. However, Hampton stressed the importance of understanding that these figures are estimates.

Unlike previous years, assessment notices will not include a calculated billable amount. Residents will be responsible for calculating their own potential bill using their new property values and the listed preliminary tax rate. This may involve calculating multiple rates for residents taxed by the county, a city, and the school system. “It’s important to understand that the final rate could still be higher or lower, depending on decisions made later by the city, county, or school board,” Hampton cautioned.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about local government decisions to accurately anticipate their final property tax bill.