Q: When are Geneva County property taxes due for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes are due October 1st each year and become delinquent after December 31st. For FY 2025, taxes were due October 1, 2024.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and how do I apply?
A: Geneva County offers a Regular Homestead Credit of $4,000 in assessed value for single-family property owners under 65 who occupy their dwelling. Owners 65 and older may qualify for an enhanced senior homestead credit with income restrictions ($12,000 adjusted gross income limit). Both require application with the county assessor's office and are NOT automatic.
Q: How does the homestead credit work?
A: The homestead credit reduces your assessed value by $4,000, which limits assessment increases rather than reducing market value. You must apply for this credit - it is not automatically applied to your property.
Q: What are the late payment penalties?
A: Properties with unpaid taxes after December 31st are considered delinquent and subject to penalties and interest charges. Contact the Geneva County Tax Collector for specific penalty rates and collection procedures.
Q: How often are properties reassessed?
A: Alabama law requires property reappraisal every four years, though Geneva County may conduct more frequent assessments. Property owners who disagree with assessments can appeal through the county board of equalization.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Geneva County Tax Collector's office directly to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods.
Q: Why might my tax rate differ from the county average?
A: Your actual tax rate depends on your property's location within specific taxing districts, including school districts, municipal boundaries, and special districts like fire or library districts.
Q: When is the application deadline for homestead credits?
A: Contact the Geneva County Assessor's office for specific application deadlines for homestead and other property tax credits, as these typically have annual filing requirements.
Q: What triggers a supplemental tax assessment?
A: New construction, major improvements, changes in property use, ownership transfers, or corrections to previous assessments can trigger supplemental tax bills outside the regular assessment cycle.
Q: How can I verify my property's taxing districts?
A: Contact the Geneva County Assessor's office with your property address or parcel number to confirm which school district, municipal, and special districts apply to your property.
