Common Property Tax Disputes and How to Resolve Them

As a homeowner, you're likely familiar with the annual property tax bill that arrives in the mail. But did you know that you have the right to dispute errors on your property tax assessment? In this article, we'll explore common property tax disputes and provide guidance on how to resolve them.

What are common property tax disputes?

There are several reasons why you might dispute your property tax assessment. Here are some common ones:

• Incorrect property value: Your property's value may have been incorrectly assessed, resulting in an unfair tax bill.
• Improper classification: Your property may have been incorrectly classified, such as being taxed as commercial property when it's actually residential.
• Exemptions not applied: You may be eligible for exemptions, such as a homestead exemption, but they haven't been applied to your property tax bill.
• Errors in the assessment process: The assessor may have made errors during the assessment process, such as failing to consider recent improvements or changes to your property.

How to dispute errors on your property tax assessment

If you're facing a property tax dispute, here are some steps you can take to resolve it:

1. Review your property tax bill: Carefully review your property tax bill to identify any errors or discrepancies.
2. Gather evidence: Gather evidence to support your claim, such as appraisals, photos, or documents that show the error.
3. Contact your local assessor's office: Reach out to your local assessor's office to report the error and request a review.
4. Appeal the decision: If the assessor's office doesn't correct the error, you can appeal the decision to a higher authority, such as a property tax appeals board.
5. Consult with a professional: If you're unsure about the process or need help navigating it, consider consulting with a professional, such as a real estate attorney or tax professional.

Conclusion

Disputing errors on your property tax assessment can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, by following these steps and gathering evidence to support your claim, you can increase your chances of resolving the dispute in your favor.