Property Tax

If you're a property owner in Autauga County, Alabama, understanding the ins and outs of property tax regulations is crucial for timely and correct payments. Property taxes are a significant responsibility, and failing to manage them properly can result in penalties, interest, or even property loss. In this guide, we'll explore all you need to know about property taxes in Autauga County, including deadlines, exemptions, tax rates, and how to pay them.

Autauga County is committed to providing its residents and business owners with clear and accessible property tax information. Whether you're looking to pay your property taxes, file for exemptions, or understand how assessments are made, this guide will help you navigate the process with ease.

What Is Property Tax in Autauga County?

Property taxes in Autauga County are levied annually on both real estate and personal property. These taxes fund local services and infrastructure, including schools, roads, and emergency services. The amount you owe is based on the assessed value of your property, which is determined by the Revenue Commissioner’s office.

The due date for property taxes is October 1 each year. However, the taxes are technically collected in arrears, meaning that they are assessed based on the property’s status as of October 1 of the previous year. Therefore, it is essential to understand how the tax system works to avoid any surprises.

Key Dates for Property Taxes in Autauga County

Autauga County property taxes are due on October 1 each year, and taxes are collected in arrears. The official tax notice will typically arrive before the due date, giving property owners time to review the information and make necessary corrections.

Important Tax Dates:

October 1 – Taxes are due.

December 31 – Last day to pay taxes without penalty.

January 1 – Property taxes become delinquent and incur interest at a rate of 1% per month.

Failure to pay taxes by December 31 results in penalties, with additional charges added in the following months. To avoid these penalties, it is essential to make your payment on time.

Understanding Property Assessments

A property assessment is an estimate of a property's market value, which is used to calculate your property tax. In Autauga County, property assessments are managed by the Revenue Commissioner. While real property is generally assessed once, it may need to be reassessed if there are changes such as ownership transfers or property improvements.

Assessments must be filed between October 1 and December 31. If you acquire property or make improvements during the year, you are responsible for reporting these changes to the Revenue Commissioner’s office by December 31. Failure to do so will result in a late filing penalty.

If you purchase or acquire property within a tax year, ensure that you file your assessment with the Revenue Commissioner on or before December 31.

Property Tax Exemptions Available in Autauga County

Autauga County offers several property tax exemptions that can help reduce your tax liability. If you're eligible for an exemption, it’s important to claim it at the time of assessment to benefit from the tax reductions.

Homestead Exemption

The Homestead Exemption allows owner-occupants to receive a reduction in property taxes. The exemption applies only to the value of your principal residence. In Autauga County, there are a few variations of the Homestead Exemption:

Standard Homestead Exemption – This applies to homeowners under the age of 65 and reduces the assessed value of the property for state and county taxes. The exemption is up to $4,000 for state taxes and up to $2,000 for county taxes.

Special Homestead Exemption for Seniors – For homeowners 65 years or older with an income less than $12,000, this exemption provides a full tax credit for the state tax and a partial credit for county taxes, based on the first $5,000 of the assessed value.

Homestead Exemption for the Disabled – Any homeowner who is 65 years or older or fully disabled, with an annual taxable income of $12,000 or less, is exempt from property taxes on their principal residence.

Special exemptions must be filed annually with the Revenue Commissioner to remain in effect.

Current Use Value for Agricultural and Timber Land

If you own farm land, pasture land, or timberland, you may qualify for a Current Use Value exemption. This exemption reduces your property’s tax burden based on its current use, not its market value. To apply, you must submit an application by December 31 before the tax year begins.

How Property Taxes Are Calculated in Autauga County

To determine your property tax bill, three key factors come into play:

Assessment Rate: This is the fraction of the property’s market value that is taxable.
Class III – Owner-occupied homes and farm and timber properties: 10% assessment rate.
Class II – All other properties, including commercial and industrial properties: 20% assessment rate.
Class I – Public utilities: 30% assessment rate.

Millage Rate: The millage rate is the rate at which your property is taxed, expressed in mills (thousandths of a dollar). Each taxing jurisdiction (county, school, and municipal) will have its own millage rate. To get an idea of the millage rates for Autauga County, visit the Millage Rate Chart.

Exemptions: If you qualify for an exemption, such as the Homestead Exemption, the amount is deducted from the gross tax.

For example, if you own a property assessed at $100,000, and your property is in Class III, your taxable value would be $10,000 (10% of $100,000). If your millage rate is 40 mills, your tax would be calculated as follows:
$10,000 x 40 mills = $400 in taxes.

How to Pay Property Taxes in Autauga County

Paying your property taxes in Autauga County is simple and convenient. You can make payments via several methods:

Online Payment: Use the Property Tax Payment Portal to pay your property taxes online. This option allows you to view your tax bill and pay by credit card or electronic check.

Mail: You can mail your property tax payment to the Revenue Commissioner’s office at:
Mailing Address: 135 North Court Street, Suite D, Prattville, Alabama 36067.

In-Person: You can also make payments in person at the Revenue Commissioner’s office, located at the same address.

Delinquent Taxes and Tax Sales

If property taxes remain unpaid by January 1, they become delinquent. Interest at a rate of 1% per month is applied to the outstanding balance. After three years of non-payment, the property may be sold at a public tax sale.

If your property is at risk of a tax sale, it’s important to contact the Revenue Commissioner’s office immediately to avoid losing your property. For more information, check the Delinquent Property Search.

Appeals and Tax Review

If you disagree with the assessment or believe there has been an error, you have the right to appeal. The Board of Equalization handles property tax disputes. To request a review or an appointment with the board, send a letter with your name, contact information, and parcel identification number to:

Autauga County Board of Equalization
135 North Court Street, Suite D, Prattville, Alabama 36067.

Contact Information for Property Tax Matters

For any questions or issues related to property taxes, contact the relevant departments:

Autauga County Revenue Commissioner
135 North Court Street, Suite D, Prattville, Alabama 36067
Phone: 334-358-6750

Autauga County Board of Equalization
135 North Court Street, Suite D, Prattville, Alabama 36067
Phone: 334-358-6757

With this guide, you are now equipped with the essential information you need to manage your property taxes in Autauga County. Stay on top of important dates, take advantage of exemptions, and ensure your payments are made on time to avoid unnecessary penalties. For further assistance, visit the Citizen Access Portal or contact the Revenue Commissioner’s office directly.

Autauga County Property Tax FAQs

How Do I Pay Property Taxes in Autauga County?

Property taxes in Autauga County are due on October 1 each year. You can pay your taxes online through the Citizen Access Portal, by mail, or in person at the Revenue Commissioner's office. If you choose to pay by mail, send your payment to 135 North Court Street, Suite D, Prattville, Alabama 36067. Payments made after December 31 will incur penalties.

What Happens if I Miss the Property Tax Payment Deadline?

If property taxes are not paid by December 31, they become delinquent. Interest at a rate of 1% per month is added, and additional penalties apply after January 1. After three years of non-payment, the property may be sold at a public tax sale. For more details, visit the Delinquent Property Search.

Can I Apply for Property Tax Exemptions in Autauga County?

Autauga County offers several property tax exemptions, including the Homestead Exemption. This exemption reduces taxes for primary residences, with additional exemptions available for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. Be sure to file your exemption at the time of assessment. You can find more information about filing for exemptions here.

How Are Property Assessments Done in Autauga County?

Property assessments in Autauga County are performed by the Revenue Commissioner. These assessments are used to determine your property tax amount. The assessment rate varies depending on the type of property. If you make changes to your property, such as improvements or a change in ownership, you must report these changes by December 31 to avoid penalties. For more information on property assessments, visit Assessment Info.

How Can I Appeal My Property Tax Assessment?

If you believe your property assessment is incorrect, you have the right to appeal. The Autauga County Board of Equalization handles property tax disputes. To request an appeal, you need to send a letter with your name, contact information, and parcel ID number to the Board at 135 North Court Street, Suite D, Prattville, Alabama 36067. More details are available on the Board of Equalization page.