Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
Barnwell County, South Carolina announced today that it will move forward with reissuing corrected 2025-2026 property tax bills following the identification of a millage rate error that affected the County portion of real property tax bills. This reflects the latest information based on guidance from the County's legal counsel and state officials. After conferring with stakeholders, County Council believes this approach is the fairest and most direct way to make taxpayers whole
During the recent reassessment cycle, updated property values were applied; however, the required millage rate adjustment, known as the "rollback", was not timely implemented. This resulted in County tax amounts being higher than allowed under state law. Once the issue was identified, the County began assessing options to correct the excess levy.
Barnwell County Council Chairman Freddie L. Houston, Sr. stated, "Our priority is to make this right for taxpayers. Reissuing corrected bills is the most direct way to ensure accuracy and avoid confusion. While every situation is unique, for most taxpayers the adjustment is expected to result in modest reductions."
A corrective ordinance will be considered by County Council prior to calendar year-end with final approval expected by December 10. Once approved, the County will reissue corrected tax bills to all affected property owners. For residents who have already paid their 2025-2026 property taxes, the County expects that refund checks will be issued in the Spring of 2026. Refunds will be processed automatically, and no action will be required from taxpayers to receive their refund. Chairman Houston added, "We appreciate the community's patience as we work through the required legal steps, and we will continue to communicate each stage of the process."
Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available. Official announcements will be shared through the County website, social media channels, and local media outlets.
