EDITORIAL: Make sure your tax is fair

But for those who manage their own property taxes, writing that lump sum payment is a reality check. Nothing grabs your attention about how much local governments really cost like having to pay the bills directly.

Even worse, the property tax system in Georgia is so byzantine and unfair that paying those taxes is beyond irritating. While many counties rushed to raise property assessments during the boom years, they have been slow to lower assessments now that property values have declined.

But there is something you can do to make sure you’re treated fairly: File a property tax return form with the county between January 1 and March 1 if you think your property assessments are too high.

That form, PT-50R, can be found on the Georgia Department of Revenue website, or you can get one from your local assessor’s office.

Paying property taxes is not fun, but make sure you’re being treated fairly.