ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Most Buncombe County property owners can now view their 2026 property tax bills online, even though this year’s bills are based on 2021 property values because the county’s scheduled reappraisal has been delayed.
County officials announced that tax notices are available through the county’s online property tax portal. However, some property owners may not see their bills yet as officials continue reviewing values to ensure they align with the 2021 reappraisal. Those notices are expected to be available in mid- to late August.
The delay stems from recently enacted state legislation that postponed Buncombe County’s 2026 property reappraisal until Jan. 1, 2027. As a result, this year’s tax bills reflect 2021 assessed values rather than updated property values.
Paper tax bills will be mailed in late August. Taxes are due Sept. 1, but property owners have until Jan. 5, 2027, to pay without interest or penalties. Unpaid balances become delinquent on Jan. 6, when collection efforts may begin.
Appeals remain on hold
Property owners who already appealed their 2026 reappraisal values do not need to file again. Those appeals remain active but are on hold until the delayed reappraisal takes effect in 2027.
At the same time, state law has opened a separate appeal period for the 2021 values used on current tax bills. Property owners have until Dec. 31 to appeal those values.
Payment plans available
The county says residents who need additional time to pay can enroll in one of two payment plans through Buncombe County Tax Collections.
The Casual Payment Plan allows residents to make monthly payments without automatic bank withdrawals, while the Preauthorized Debit Plan automatically drafts a set amount each month. Property owners enrolled in either plan are not subject to collection actions, such as wage or bank garnishments, while they remain in good standing.
County officials encourage property owners to enroll as early as possible, since starting sooner reduces the required monthly payment amount.
Residents interested in a payment plan or tax relief programs for seniors, disabled individuals or veterans can call Buncombe County Tax Collections at 828-250-4910.
Assistance programs available
Buncombe County also reminded residents about several financial assistance programs available to qualifying households.
The county’s new General Assistance Program, or GAP, opened applications July 1 and provides short-term financial assistance for housing and utility expenses. The program serves both homeowners and renters, although homeowners who apply between July 1 and Sept. 30 receive priority while funding remains available.
To qualify, applicants must live in Buncombe County, meet income requirements and have limited financial resources. Approved households may receive up to $500, depending on income.
Ways to pay
Property owners can pay their tax bills online through the county’s MyBuncombeCounty payment portal, by phone, by mail or at several drop box locations throughout the county.
Residents can also view their tax bill, make payments and begin the appeals process through the county’s online property tax portal.
Key dates for property owners:
- Late August: Paper tax bills mailed
- Sept. 1: Taxes are due
- Dec. 31: Deadline to appeal the 2021 property values used for current tax bills
- Jan. 5, 2027: Last day to pay without interest
- Jan. 6, 2027: Taxes become delinquent and collection actions may begin2027)
