Since my last post about 2019 property taxes, I’ve learned more about what the new homestead exemption passed in November really means for city of Atlanta residents.

While my original post wasn’t wholly incorrect, I failed to realize that the 2.6% cap only applies to the increase in the taxable value for the “Atlanta General” line item of the property tax bill, and not to the values set by the assessor’s office. Based on a recent conversation via Nextdoor, I see I’m not alone in this misunderstanding.

Starting 2019, the amount that can be taxed for the Atlanta General line item of the property tax bill will be set as the “lowest (assessed value) among the 2016, 2017, and 2018 valuations multiplied by 1.0423, which is the inflation rate for December 2015 through December 2017.” Then, that taxable value will be adjusted annually by 2.6% plus any change in value “derived from additions or improvements to, or the removal of real property.”

Another new homestead exemption was passed in a special election that raises the exemption for the “Atlanta School” line item from $30,000 to $50,000 for 2019 – 2021.

A few other important points:

1) The assessor’s office will continue to set fair market value, and thus assessed values, at whatever value they deem correct. Meaning, we could still see dramatic increases in our property tax values next year.

2) If you applied to appeal your 2018 taxes, paid a Temporary Tax Bill, and have not had a hearing with the Board of Equalization yet, then your appeal is still under consideration. All you can do is wait for the hearing to be scheduled.

3) If your 2018 appeal was settled at the BOE or Superior Court, the tax assessor cannot increase the value for two more years, unless you change the property or file a return at a different value.

All of the information I provided above is based on conversations and online research. If you have additional info, or see a mistake, please let me know! We are all in this together and I strive to provide the most accurate information.