GENERAL TAX INFORMATION
The ad valorem tax, more commonly called the property tax, is the primary source of revenue for local governments in Georgia. Ad valorem means “according to value,” and property is taxed based on its assessed value. Assessed value by law is based on 40% of the fair market value as of January 1 each year. It is set by the Burke County Board of Assessors Office.
The millage rate is a determining factor in the calculation of taxes. A mill is 1/10 of $.01 or $1 per $1,000 of assessed value. Millage rates are set by the authorities of each taxing jurisdiction: the Burke County Board of Commissioners and the Burke County Board of Education. The amount of these taxes is based on the assessed value of the property multiplied by the millage rate.
DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES
Interest on past due taxes accrues monthly from the date the tax is due until the date the tax is paid. Interest accruing for months prior to July 1, 2016 accrues at the rate of 12 percent annually (1 percent per month). Interest that accrues beginning July 1, 2016 accrues at an annual rate equal to the Federal Reserve prime rate plus 3 percent. O.C.G.A. 48-2-40
Penalty on past due taxes accrues every 120 days at a rate of 5% (not to exceed 20% collectively) of the unpaid tax. O.C.G.A.48-2-44.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Business Hours
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
1st & 3rd Saturday
9:00 a.m. – 12 noon
524 Myrick Street Suite A, Waynesboro, GA 30830
By Mail
P O Box 671, Waynesboro, GA 30830
Online Service
Property Tax – www.burkecountytax.com
Vehicle Registration – www.dor.georgia.gov