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Updated 2025 Tax Year

Macon County
Property Tax Guide

Everything you need to know about property taxes in Macon County, GA. Rates, due dates, exemptions, and how it affects your monthly payment.

10 Official Sources
8 min read
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Quick Facts
Tax Rate
Varies by location within county due to different taxing districts and municipal boundaries
Exemptions
5+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Macon County, Georgia operates on a property tax system that serves as the primary funding mechanism for essential local services including county operations, public schools, emergency services, and infrastructure maintenance. Property taxes in Macon County are administered by the Tax Commissioner's Office for billing and collection, while the Board of Tax Assessors determines property values and eligibility for various tax credits and exemptions.

The effective property tax rate in Macon County varies by location within the county due to different special taxing districts, school districts, and municipal boundaries. Property owners should expect their actual tax rate to differ based on their specific location and the combination of taxing authorities that serve their area. Georgia follows an assessment-based system where properties are typically assessed at fair market value, and various tax credits and exemptions may be available to qualifying property owners, though most require formal application and approval.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRate (per $1,000)Description
County GeneralVaries by districtCounty operations, services, infrastructure
School DistrictVaries by districtLocal school operations and facilities
StateVariesState-mandated assessments
Total Rate (FY 2025)9.575Combined millage rate (reduced from previous year)

Note: The 9.575 mill rate applies to most areas of Macon County for FY 2025, representing a reduction from the previous year as recommended by local officials. Actual rates may vary by specific location within the county due to special taxing districts, municipal boundaries, and school district variations. Contact the Macon County Tax Commissioner's Office for your specific district rate.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Macon County, property taxes are due in two installments:

Pro tip: If you pay through mortgage escrow, your lender splits these payments across your monthly mortgage. If you pay directly, set calendar reminders to avoid late penalties.
Section 4

Supplemental Tax Bills

Supplemental property taxes in Macon County are additional tax assessments that occur when there are changes in property ownership, value, or improvements made after the initial tax assessment period. Common triggers include new construction, property sales that result in reassessment, additions or major improvements to existing properties, and changes in property use or classification.

Supplemental taxes are calculated based on the difference between the old assessed value and the new assessed value, prorated for the remaining portion of the tax year. For example, if a property owner completes a $100,000 addition to their home in January and the county assesses this improvement, they would receive a supplemental tax bill for the added value covering the remainder of the tax year at the current millage rate.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $300,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if applicable): -$2,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $298,000
  • Annual Tax (9.575 mills): $2,853.05
  • Monthly Payment: $237.75

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $600,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if applicable): -$2,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $598,000
  • Annual Tax (9.575 mills): $5,726.35
  • Monthly Payment: $477.20

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000
  • Less: Homestead Credit (if applicable): -$2,000
  • Net Taxable Value: $998,000
  • Annual Tax (9.575 mills): $9,556.35
  • Monthly Payment: $796.36

Note: Credits shown require application and approval. Additional credits may be available for seniors, veterans, or disabled property owners. Contact the Board of Tax Assessors for eligibility requirements.

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Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders in Macon County require property tax escrow accounts for borrowers who put down less than 20% or request escrow services. Lenders collect monthly payments equal to 1/12th of the annual property tax bill and hold these funds in an escrow account to pay taxes when due. Since Macon County property taxes are typically due by mid-December each year, lenders usually make payments in December to ensure timely payment and avoid penalties.

Property owners with escrow accounts should review their annual escrow analysis statements to ensure adequate funds are being collected. If property values increase significantly or tax rates change, escrow shortages may occur, requiring either a lump sum payment or increased monthly payments. Online payment systems in Macon County typically become available in June, allowing property owners or their lenders to pay electronically. Property owners should verify with their lender that taxes have been paid by the December deadline to avoid late penalties and potential liens.

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Section 6

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When are property taxes due in Macon County for FY 2025? A: Property taxes are typically due by mid-December each year. Online payment options usually become available starting in June. Always verify current deadlines with the Tax Commissioner's Office.

Q: What homestead credit is available and do I need to apply? A: Georgia homestead credits are available for primary residences and require initial application with the Board of Tax Assessors. The homestead credit caps annual assessment increases, helping limit tax growth on your primary residence. You must apply - it is not automatic.

Q: What other tax credits are available in Macon County? A: Senior citizens age 65+ may qualify for a $4,000 credit if household income is under $10,000. Veterans, disabled persons, and seniors age 62+ may qualify for additional credits. All credits require application and income verification through the Board of Tax Assessors.

Q: How often are properties assessed in Macon County? A: Georgia law requires annual assessments, though not all properties are physically inspected each year. The Board of Tax Assessors uses sales data, market trends, and periodic inspections to maintain current values.

Q: Can I appeal my property assessment? A: Yes, property owners can appeal assessments through the Board of Tax Assessors. Appeals must typically be filed within 45 days of receiving your tax notice. Contact the Board of Tax Assessors for specific procedures and deadlines.

Q: What are the penalties for late payment? A: Late payments typically incur interest charges and penalties. Properties with unpaid taxes may be subject to tax liens and eventual tax sales. Contact the Tax Commissioner's Office for current penalty rates and payment options.

Q: Can I pay property taxes online? A: Yes, Macon County offers online payment options that typically become available in June each year. Check the Tax Commissioner's Office website for current payment portals and accepted methods.

Q: Why might my tax rate differ from my neighbor's? A: Tax rates can vary within Macon County based on special taxing districts, school districts, municipal boundaries, and incorporated areas. Each combination of taxing authorities results in a different total millage rate for property owners in that area.

Verified Sources

Backed by 10 Official Government Sources

Every fact in this guide is sourced from official county, state, and federal documents.

01
Tax Doc
Commissioners - Notice of Property Tax Increase 2025maconcountyga.gov
02
Tax Doc
Commissioners - Press Release - Property Tax Increasemaconcountyga.gov
03
County
Homepage - Macon County, GAmaconcountyga.gov
04
County
Frequently Asked Questions - Macon County, GAmaconcountyga.gov
05
County
Welcome and Information - Macon County, GAmaconcountyga.gov
06
County
Homestead Exemption - Macon County, GAmaconcountyga.gov
07
County
Exemptions - Macon County, GAmaconcountyga.gov
08
Tax Doc
Property Tax Homestead Exemptions - Department of Revenuedor.georgia.gov
09
Tax Doc
Pay Property Tax Online - Department of Revenue - Georgia.govdor.georgia.gov
10
Tax Doc
Pay Property Taxesgeorgia.gov
All sources verified as of 2025 Tax Year

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