When Are Georgia Property Taxes Due? 2026 Deadlines, Rates & Exemptions

Georgia homeowners must pay property taxes between October 15 and December 20 each year, though the exact deadline varies by county. With an effective state tax rate of 0.92% and homestead exemptions up to $2,000 statewide (plus county supplements), understanding Georgia's property tax system can help you avoid penalties and maximize savings.

When Are Georgia Property Taxes Due?

Property taxes in Georgia follow a semi-annual payment schedule set by individual county tax commissioners. The state payment window runs from October 15 through December 20, but specific due dates differ across Georgia's 159 counties. Some counties set an earlier deadline in October, while others extend into late November or early December.

For a nationwide overview of payment schedules, see our guide to when property taxes are due.

To confirm your county's exact due date, contact your county tax assessor or treasurer's office—this is the fastest way to avoid late fees. Most Georgia counties allow online, mail, or in-person payments at the county tax office.

Georgia Property Tax Rates

Georgia's effective property tax rate stands at 0.92%, calculated on the median home value of approximately $380,000. This means a homeowner with a $380,000 property would pay roughly $3,496 annually in state and county taxes combined.

County tax rates vary significantly across the state. Some rural counties charge lower millage rates, while suburban and urban areas near Atlanta typically assess higher rates. Your property tax bill reflects both the state assessment and your specific county's millage rate, which funds local schools, roads, and services.

Georgia Property Tax Exemptions

Georgia's homestead exemption provides up to $2,000 in statewide exemption value, meaning that amount is excluded from your taxable assessment. Additionally, most Georgia counties offer supplemental local homestead exemptions that can reduce your tax burden further.

Homeowners aged 65 and older may qualify for additional exemptions on school taxes and county taxes. Veterans with service-connected disabilities, surviving spouses of military members, and certain disabled individuals also receive exemption eligibility. Check your county assessor's website or call directly to learn which exemptions apply to your situation.

How to Pay Georgia Property Taxes

Contact your county tax assessor or treasurer's office to determine payment methods—most counties accept checks, credit cards, electronic transfers, and online portals. Paying online is typically the fastest and safest option, though a small convenience fee may apply.

Never miss a payment deadline or ignore a tax bill. If you have a mortgage with an escrow account, your lender may handle property tax payments on your behalf. To understand how property taxes fit into your overall housing costs, use our free mortgage calculator for Georgia to estimate your monthly payment including taxes and insurance.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Missing Georgia's property tax deadline triggers late penalties of typically 1% to 2% per month, which accumulate quickly. After extended delinquency, the county may file a tax lien against your property, which can damage your credit and lead to foreclosure.

If you face hardship, contact your county tax office immediately to discuss payment plans. Some counties offer extended payment arrangements or penalty relief programs. Ignoring a tax bill only increases the total amount owed, so proactive communication is always your best strategy.

Property Taxes and Your Mortgage Payment

If you financed your Georgia home with a mortgage, your lender likely requires you to escrow property taxes and homeowners insurance as part of your monthly payment. This means a portion of each mortgage payment goes into an escrow account, and your servicer pays the taxes and insurance on your behalf.

Understanding your full housing cost—principal, interest, taxes, and insurance (PITI)—is essential for budgeting. Use our Georgia mortgage calculator to see how property taxes and insurance affect your monthly payment. For deeper insight into how exemptions lower your bill, read our guide to property tax exemptions and learn strategies to reduce your overall tax liability.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are Georgia property taxes due in 2026?
Georgia property taxes are due between October 15 and December 20, 2026, with exact dates varying by county. Contact your county tax commissioner's office or visit their website to confirm your specific deadline. Paying early ensures you avoid late fees and potential tax liens on your property.

What is the property tax rate in Georgia?
Georgia's effective property tax rate is 0.92%, though individual county rates vary. Your actual tax bill depends on your county's millage rate, your home's assessed value, and available exemptions. A homeowner with a $380,000 property would typically pay around $3,496 annually, but this varies significantly by location.

What exemptions can I claim in Georgia?
Georgia offers a homestead exemption of up to $2,000 statewide, plus additional county-level exemptions. Seniors (65+), disabled veterans, and surviving military spouses may qualify for enhanced exemptions on school and county taxes. Review our property tax exemptions guide to determine which breaks apply to your household.

What happens if I pay Georgia property taxes late?
Late payments incur penalties of 1% to 2% per month plus interest. After extended delinquency, the county may place a tax lien on your property, which can lead to foreclosure and credit damage. Contact your county tax office immediately if you cannot pay by the deadline to explore payment plan options.