Real Estate / Property Tax Abatement Info
An abatement is a reduction of property taxes based upon a reduction in the assessed value of taxable property. Taxpayers can file for an abatement for any reason including overvaluation, disproportionate assessment, improper classification, or tax exemption based on use.You can obtain an abatement application online.
When and where do I file?
What are the criteria for filing for an abatement?
Applications are generally filed for two reasons:
- owners who feel that their property assessments are higher than the price for which the properties can be sold
- there is a mistake on the property record card that serves to overstate property value
Abatements cannot be granted because a homeowner considers taxes to be too high in general. Assessors are charged with the responsibility of determining property value and the allocation of the tax levy.
What information should I include with my abatement application?
While checking the accuracy of your property record card, please be mindful that some of the data is simply descriptive and does not affect value. An example would be room count; the property has seven rooms and the record lists eight; or the property has three bedrooms and the record lists four. Other items like finished living area and bathroom counts, however, do affect value.
VERY IMPORTANT: since sales from 2021 were used to establish the fiscal year 2023 assessments, applicants are strongly urged to use sales only from 2021. Our office will have a book of all 2021 sales available to the public. Market activity during 2022 will be used for assessments next fiscal year.
What happens after I file?
Do I still pay my taxes after I file an application for abatement?
Can I appeal the decision of the Board of Assessors?
If you have any questions about a decision on your abatement application, please contact us.