TAX COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES NEW 2026 PROPERTY TAX PAYMENT SCHEDULE AND HOMEOWNER TAX RELIEF GRANT

Property owners may begin partial payments when bills arrive and review important HTRG information

Muscogee County Tax Commissioner David A. Britt II, MBA, MPA, announces key updates to the 2026 property tax billing and payment schedule. This year, taxpayers will have a single payment deadline while continuing to have the option to make partial payments prior to the due date. In addition to standard homestead exemptions, eligible homeowners will receive additional tax savings through the 2026 Homeowner Tax Relief Grant (HTRG). Taxpayers who pay their property taxes through an escrow account should be aware that the HTRG may affect future escrow adjustments and mortgage payments.

The 2026 property tax bills have been mailed with the final balance due December 1, 2026.

Under the 2026 schedule, property owners may make partial payments in any amount after receiving their tax bill. Payments may be made as often as the taxpayer chooses throughout September, October and November, provided the final balance is paid by December 1.

"We want property owners to understand that they do not have to wait until December 1 to begin paying their property taxes," said Tax Commissioner Britt. "Taxpayers may start making payments as soon as their bills arrive. Paying in partial payments throughout the fall may make the obligation more manageable and reduce the balance that remains due in December. However, those who wish to pay the traditional 40/60% installments may still do so."

Traditionally, Muscogee County property tax bills followed a two-installment schedule, with 40 percent due October 1 and the remaining 60 percent due December 1. For 2026, there is no required October 1 installment. However, taxpayers who prefer the traditional 40-percent and 60-percent payment approach may continue using it voluntarily.

The Tax Commissioner's Office encourages property owners to review their bills promptly and begin making payments as early as their circumstances allow.

2026 Property Tax Timeline

Property owners may submit payments in person or pay online at columbusga.gov/taxcommissioner.

2026 Homeowner Tax Relief Grant: What Homeowners Need to Know

The 2026 Homeowner Tax Relief Grant (HTRG), provided by Governor Brian Kemp and the Georgia General Assembly, gives eligible homeowners one-time property tax relief. Here are the key points:

·  Who qualifies: Homeowners with an approved homestead exemption. Rental and non-homesteaded properties are not eligible.

·  What the grant provides: An $18,000 reduction in the assessed value of an eligible homesteaded property. The resulting tax reduction varies by property.

·  Where to find it: HTRG appears as a reduction on the 2026 property tax bill.

·  If taxes are paid through mortgage escrow: HTRG lowers the 2026 property tax bill. If the grant is not offered again in 2027, your 2027 bill will be higher than the grant‑reduced amount from 2026, meaning your lender may not have collected enough funds. As a result, a future escrow analysis could show a shortage and lead to an adjustment in your monthly mortgage payment. To avoid the possible mortgage payment increase resulting from the HTRG, taxpayers should contact your lender to discuss your options.

 For questions or additional information, contact the Muscogee County Tax Commissioner's Office at 706-653-4211.