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1. Can I reduce my property value without filing for an abatement?

No. The assessors do not have the authority to reduce property values after the values have been committed without a timely filed application for abatement. It is critical that the abatement application be filed between January 1 and February 1 of every tax year to secure the taxpayer’s right to appeal. If no appeal is filed, and after inspection, the assessor corrects the data that reduces the assessed value, that reduction will be applied to the next fiscal year’s assessed valuation.

2. What if, after the bill goes out, I still disagree with the assessment?

You will need to file an abatement application with the Board of Assessors by February 1, of that tax year. The Board of Assessors has three months in which to act on your application. They will notify you on an approved Department of Revenue form of their decision within that time.

3. What evidence do I need to present to the Board when filing for an abatement?

State law puts the burden of proof on the property owner to show that the assessment is incorrect. Stating that property taxes are too high is not relevant. You should establish in your mind what you think your property is worth.

The best evidence that could be considered is a recent sale price of your property. The next best thing is recent sale prices of properties that are similar to yours in size, style, age and location. The closer in similarity and proximity, the better the evidence. Another type of evidence that is considered is a recent appraisal of your property.

4. Do I have to apply for an abatement every year if I received one in the past?

No. If there was a specific problem or circumstance regarding your property that warranted an abatement in the past, that information would remain on the property record until the issue is corrected. All subsequent assessments will be calculated based on the corrected information.