HonestCasa logoHonestCasa
Updated 2025 Tax Year

Rabun County
Property Tax Guide

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

10 Official Sources
8 min read
Quick Facts
Tax Rate
Varies by district - typically 1.2% to 1.8% of assessed value depending on municipal boundaries and special districts
Exemptions
5+ Available
Section 1

How Property Tax Works

Rabun County, Georgia operates on a property tax system that funds essential local services including schools, public safety, infrastructure, and county operations. Property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of real estate, which is determined by the Rabun County Tax Assessor's Office and reassessed periodically to reflect current market conditions.

The effective property tax rate in Rabun County varies by location within the county due to different special taxing districts and municipal boundaries. Property owners may be subject to county taxes, school district taxes, and additional assessments depending on their specific location. The Rabun County Board of Commissioners sets the final millage rates annually, with meetings held at the Rabun County Courthouse to determine rates for each fiscal year.

It's important to note that actual tax bills can vary significantly based on the specific taxing districts where your property is located, as well as any tax credits you may qualify for and successfully apply to receive.

Section 2

What Makes Up Your Tax Bill

ComponentRateDescription
County General FundTBDBasic county services, administration, public safety
School DistrictTBDRabun County School District operations
Special DistrictsVariesFire districts, library districts (location-dependent)
Total Estimated RateTBDCombined millage rate per $1,000 assessed value

Note: The final millage rates for FY 2025-2026 have not been set. The Rabun County Board of Commissioners will determine final rates at upcoming meetings held at the Rabun County Courthouse. Rates shown are subject to change and may vary by special taxing district within the county. Check the Rabun County government website for the most current rate information.

Section 3

When Are Property Taxes Due?

For the 2025/2026 tax year in Rabun 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 tax assessments in Rabun County are triggered by changes in property ownership, new construction, or improvements that increase a property's assessed value during the tax year. When these events occur, the Tax Assessor's Office determines the additional assessed value and applies the current tax rate to calculate supplemental taxes.

For example, if you complete a home addition valued at $50,000 in March, and the county tax rate is 15 mills, you would owe approximately $750 in supplemental taxes ($50,000 ÷ 1,000 × 15 mills = $750) prorated from the completion date through the end of the fiscal year. Supplemental tax bills are typically issued within 90 days of the assessment change and become part of your overall property tax obligation.

Example Calculation

Example 1: $300,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $300,000
  • Less: Standard Homestead Credit (if applied): Varies
  • Net Taxable Value: ~$300,000 (pending credit application)
  • Annual Tax (estimated 15 mills): $4,500
  • Monthly Escrow: ~$375

Example 2: $600,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $600,000
  • Less: Standard Homestead Credit (if applied): Varies
  • Net Taxable Value: ~$600,000 (pending credit application)
  • Annual Tax (estimated 15 mills): $9,000
  • Monthly Escrow: ~$750

Example 3: $1,000,000 Home

  • Assessed Value: $1,000,000
  • Less: Standard Homestead Credit (if applied): Varies
  • Net Taxable Value: ~$1,000,000 (pending credit application)
  • Annual Tax (estimated 15 mills): $15,000
  • Monthly Escrow: ~$1,250

Note: These calculations use estimated tax rates. Tax credits require separate applications and are not automatically applied. Actual rates and credits vary by location within Rabun County.

See How Taxes Affect Your Payment

Property taxes are just part of your total monthly cost. Get the full picture.

Calculate Now
Section 5

Escrow & Property Taxes

Most mortgage lenders in Rabun County require property tax escrow accounts, where monthly payments are collected along with your mortgage payment and held until taxes are due. Lenders typically collect 1/12th of your estimated annual property tax bill each month, plus a cushion amount allowed by federal law.

Property taxes in Rabun County are generally due by December 20th each year. Lenders usually pay taxes directly to the Rabun County Tax Commissioner's Office before this deadline using funds from your escrow account. You should receive an annual escrow analysis from your lender showing collections, payments, and any adjustments needed for the coming year. It's important to verify that your lender has paid your taxes on time, as you remain ultimately responsible for ensuring payment even when using escrow services.

How HonestCasa Helps
  • Understand whether your escrow is set correctly
  • See how rising taxes will change your monthly payment
  • Plan ahead instead of being surprised by "shortage" letters
Section 6

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When are Rabun County property taxes due for the current fiscal year? A: Property taxes are generally due by December 20th. If taxes remain unpaid after this date, the property may be subject to tax lien procedures starting 90 days after the due date.

Q: What tax credits are available and do I need to apply? A: Tax credits available include the Standard Homestead Credit for primary residences and a Local Homestead Credit for homeowners 65 and older with net income under $10,000 (providing $12,500 exemption). All credits require application and are not automatically applied. The standard homestead credit has an April 1st deadline.

Q: How does the Homestead Credit work? A: The Homestead Credit caps the annual increase in your home's assessed value for tax purposes, protecting you from large assessment jumps. This is different from reducing market value - it limits assessment growth. You must file an application to receive this protection.

Q: Can I pay my property taxes online? A: Contact the Rabun County Tax Commissioner's Office directly for current online payment options and accepted payment methods.

Q: What happens if I pay my taxes late? A: Late payments may result in penalties and interest charges. Properties with unpaid taxes may ultimately be subject to tax sale procedures.

Q: How often are properties reassessed in Rabun County? A: Contact the Rabun County Tax Assessor's Office for the current assessment schedule and procedures for appealing assessments if you disagree with your property's valuation.

Q: Do special districts affect my tax bill? A: Yes, your location within Rabun County determines which special taxing districts apply to your property, such as fire districts or library districts, which can add to your total tax rate.

Q: Where can I get help with tax credit applications? A: Visit the Rabun County Tax Assessor's Office or Tax Commissioner's Office for assistance with applications and required documentation. Remember that most credits require annual application by specific deadlines.

See the Full Picture of Your Home Costs

Property taxes are just one piece of homeownership. HonestCasa helps you understand your total monthly cost and explore safe ways to access your home equity.

Total Monthly Cost

Mortgage + taxes + insurance + HOA

Equity Growth

Track how your equity grows over time

Safe Equity Access

Options for projects or debt payoff

Free • No credit check • 2-minute estimate