Q: When are property taxes due in Greenwood County for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes for FY 2025-2026 are due by April 30, 2026. Online payments can be made through the county's website, and payments received after 4:30 PM are posted the next business day.
Q: What tax credits are available and how do I apply?
A: Common tax credits include the Homestead Credit for primary residences, Disabled Veteran Credits, and Senior Citizen Credits. All credits require separate applications to be filed with the county assessor's office. Applications typically have annual deadlines, so contact the assessor's office for specific requirements and timing.
Q: How does the Homestead Credit work?
A: The Homestead Credit is available for primary residences and provides assessment protection by capping annual assessment increases. You must apply for this credit - it is not automatic. The credit helps limit how much your property's assessed value can increase each year, providing tax stability for homeowners.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Greenwood County?
A: Properties are subject to periodic reassessment to reflect current market values. The county assessor determines the schedule for reassessments. Property owners receive notices of assessment changes and have appeal rights if they disagree with the new assessed value.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments are subject to penalties and interest charges. The penalty structure typically includes a percentage of the unpaid tax amount plus accruing interest. Contact the tax collector's office for specific penalty rates and payment options if you're unable to pay by the April 30th deadline.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Greenwood County processes online tax payments through their Core system. All online payments are available through the county's official website. Payments made after 4:30 PM are posted the following business day.
Q: Why did my taxes increase when I didn't make any improvements?
A: Tax increases can result from several factors including county-wide reassessment reflecting market value changes, increased tax rates due to budget needs or voter-approved bonds, removal of expired tax credits, or addition of new special district taxes in your area.
Q: How do special district taxes work?
A: Special districts provide specific services like fire protection, water/sewer, or lighting to defined geographic areas. These districts can levy additional taxes on properties within their boundaries. Your total tax rate includes county, school, municipal (if applicable), and any special district taxes that apply to your property's location.
Q: What's the difference between market value and assessed value?
A: Market value is the estimated price your property would sell for in the current market. Assessed value is the value used for tax calculation purposes, which in South Carolina is typically based on market value but may be subject to assessment caps or other limitations depending on applicable credits and exemptions.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: If you believe your property is over-assessed, you can file an appeal with the county's Board of Assessment Appeals. Appeals must be filed within specific timeframes after receiving your assessment notice. You'll need to provide evidence supporting your claim that the assessed value is too high, such as recent comparable sales or property condition issues.
