Suzanne Widenhouse, Chief Appraiser, and David Britt, Muscogee County Tax Commissioner, are warning citizens about mail that has been showing up throughout Georgia. The third-party solicitations look like government documents and charge fees for services that are free to the public.

“Our office does not charge fees for filing homestead applications or claiming excess funds from tax sales.” said David Britt. “There are many third-party asset recovery companies charging service fees to citizens. They are not affiliated with my office. If you receive a letter, contact my office to verify its validity.”

The Tax Assessors office also does not charge for filing appeals. “We have three different ways for taxpayers to file appeals with the Tax Assessors office; they can file online, via the mail or coming to the office in person.” Said Suzanne Widenhouse. “We do not charge any fees for filing an appeal, if you have any questions regarding your value, your notice of assessment or the appeal process, please reach out to the Tax Assessors office, staff are ready and willing to assist.”

The deadline to file appeals is close of business July 3, 2025. This deadline includes filing for the homestead exemption for those who missed the prior deadline of April 1, 2025. If you owned and occupied your home by January 1,2025 and had not previously filed for homestead you may be eligible. Please visit www.columbusga/org/taxassessors for more information or in person at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, GA 31906

The Tax Assessors office is responsible for the appraisal of all taxable property, real and personal, that the county Board of Assessors is required to assess. The Tax Commissioner’s Office is responsible for collecting real and personal property taxes.