TRANSFER
TAX FORM PROCEDURES FOLLOW-UP
The new transfer tax filing procedure
is now on-line. As hoped, the new
procedure is user-friendly and a
much-needed improvement over the
old green, multi-part form.
To use the new procedure,
logon to the Clerk Authority's web-site
at www.GSCCCA.org.
Click on "PT-61 E-Filing."
The information sections provide
a good overview of the new procedure
and are helpful. To actually complete
a form, follow the prompts to successive
screens for seller's information,
buyer's information, property information
and then the actual tax information.
The information requested is substantially
similar to the information requested
on the current Form PT61. The system
calculates the appropriate tax amount
automatically, and even prompts
the user for the various exemptions,
if applicable. After the data is
entered print the form and submit
it with the deed when filed for
recording.
The new procedure
started September 1, 2004. However,
not all staff at the different counties
were aware of the procedure, and
at first some would not accept the
new forms. If you still have difficulty
with a particular Clerk rejecting
the new form, please contact me
so we can resolve this issue.
Another issue is
whether the new forms need to be
signed. They do not. Again, this
may cause minor problems if the
Clerk in your county is not familiar
with the new process.
Finally, there is
nothing on the web-site explaining
how many copies must be submitted
to the Clerk. The safest bet at
this point is to send the original
with a copy.
The rumor is that
the old, green forms will only be
accepted for another thirty (30)
days. However I cannot confirm this.
This newer procedure
is more efficient and easy to use.
Attorneys and their staff should
find this a much needed improvement
over the previous procedure.
