Q: When are Clarke County property taxes due for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes for FY 2025 are due October 1, 2024, and become delinquent after December 31, 2024. The tax lien attaches to your property on October 1st each year.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: Clarke County offers a homestead credit (not exemption) that reduces your assessed value by up to $4,000 for state taxes and $2,000 for county taxes. You must apply annually by December 31st and occupy the property as your primary residence on January 1st of the tax year.
Q: How does the homestead credit actually work?
A: The homestead credit reduces your property's assessed value for tax calculation purposes - it doesn't limit assessment increases or reduce market value. You must reapply each year and provide proof of primary residence to the Revenue Commissioner.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Clarke County?
A: Alabama law requires property reassessment every four years. Clarke County conducts comprehensive reappraisals to ensure assessments reflect current market values, with the most recent countywide reassessment completed in 2022.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: Assessment appeals must be filed with the Clarke County Board of Equalization within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice. You'll need evidence supporting your claim that the assessed value exceeds fair market value.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Properties become delinquent after December 31st and accrue interest and penalties. Contact the Clarke County Revenue Commissioner for current penalty rates and payment options for delinquent accounts.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Clarke County Revenue Commissioner at (251) 275-3251 to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods for property taxes.
Q: Why is my tax bill different from my neighbor's if we have similar homes?
A: Tax bills vary based on assessed value differences, homestead credit eligibility, location within different municipal or special district boundaries, and whether property owners have applied for available credits.
Q: Do senior citizens qualify for additional property tax relief?
A: Alabama offers various property tax relief programs for seniors, disabled persons, and veterans. Contact the Clarke County Revenue Commissioner to learn about available credits and application requirements specific to your situation.
Q: What happens if I disagree with a supplemental tax assessment?
A: Supplemental assessments can be appealed using the same process as regular assessments. You have 30 days from the supplemental assessment date to file an appeal with the County Board of Equalization.
