Budget Basics

Budget Basics: Understanding Greenville County’s Budget

Greenville County Council passed the 2026 budget and will soon begin work on 2027. Do you know how the budget process really works – where the money comes from and how it’s spent?

Budget Basics is here to help. In clear, plain language, we’ll show you how to:

• Read and understand your property tax bill (and finally decode those confusing terms)

• See where your tax dollars go — from schools to roads to public safety and more

• Contact your council representative to share your ideas and priorities. Find your representatives by entering your street address HERE

Greenville County’s budget has a direct impact on your daily life. By learning the basics, you’ll gain the tools to speak up for what matters most to you and your community — whether that’s public safety, better roads, stronger schools, or more affordable housing.

Thank you to the Helga Marston Foundation and the LWV of South Carolina for their support of this 7-module project and to the development team of Ame Sanders, Susan Bell, Lawson Wetli, Britton Swingle and Shelby Cohen.

• Budget Basics Glossary of Terms 
• Budget Basics Resources & References
  
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Weekly calendar of Greenville County meetings, including County Council and any committee meetings, plus board and commissions. 
• Greenville County School Board of Trustees homepage, including a meeting calendar.
• How to Speak at a Public Meeting: A Greenville County Guide - Simple Civics: Greenville County Podcast 8/5/25

This information is not intended to provide tax advice.  For advice and instructions, you MUST consult the Greenville County Real Property Services website or office staff.

Greenville County Real Property Services at 301 University Ridge, Suite S-1000, phone 864.467.7300 or www.greenvillecounty.org/RealProperty