If your property tax assessment feels too high this year, you're not alone. Homeowners across Atlanta are reviewing their 2025 notices and finding surprising jumps in value. The good news? You have the right to appeal.
In this post, we'll break down how to appeal your 2025 Atlanta (and Fulton County) property tax assessment-step by step.
Why File an Appeal?
Your Notice of Assessment isn't a tax bill. It's your property's appraised value, used to calculate your taxes. If you believe the county's estimate is too high. an appeal can:
- Correct errors (wrong square footage, condition, etc.)
- Address overvaluation (value exceeds fair market price)
- Fix uniformity issues (similar homes valued lower)
- Apply missing exemptions (like the homestead exemption)
If your appeal is successful, your property value may be frozen for three years under Georgia law.
Key Dates for 2025 (Fulton County)
- Assessment Notices Available: June 2025 (online & by mail)
- Deadline to File Appeal: August 1, 2025 (or as stated on your notice)
- Homestead Exemption Deadline: April 1, 2025 (some late exceptions during appeal)
You have 45 days from the date on your Notice to file an appeal. Other counties in metro Atlanta have different timelines, so always check your notice.
Step-by-Step: How to Appeal
1. Review Your Notice
- Check the property details (square footage, lot size, number of bathrooms)
- Compare the 2025 value to previous years
- Look for missing exemptions or unusual value spikes
2. Choose Your Appeal Path
You can appeal through one of three options:
- Board of Equalization (BOE) - Most common
- Hearing Officer - For higher-value properties
- Non-binding Arbitration
You must state your choice when you file your appeal.
3. Submit Your Appeal
Appeals can be filed:
- Online via fultonassessor.org
- By mail or in person with a PT-311A form
Include your:
- Property ID and address
- Your opinion of the property's value
- Supporting evidence: photos, comparables, appraisals, repair estimates
- Contact info and trier-of-fact selection
4. County Review or Hearing
- The assessor may revise the value based on your evidence
- You may receive a "No Change" or "30-Day Letter"
- If unresolved, you'll have a hearing before the BOE or Hearing Officer
Be ready to present your case with clear, organized evidence.
5. Superior Court (If Needed)
If you disagree with the decision, you can appeal to the County Superior Court within 30 days. This step may require legal help and a bond.
Pro Tips for a Strong Appeal
- Use recent sales of similar homes in your neighborhood
- Document any needed repairs or issues that affect value
- Include a private appraisal, if available
- Highlight inconsistencies with comparable properties
- Keep all documents and correspondence organized
If successful, your lower value may be locked in for three years, saving you money long-term.
Thinking About Selling Your Atlanta Home?
Whether you're planning to sell in the next few months or just starting to explore your options, the key is preparation. A strong listing strategy, staging, and pricing plan will always outweigh seasonality.
