Property Tax Appeal Letter (Free Sample)
Use this sample property tax appeal letter as a template for your formal appeal letter.
Last updated on June 12, 2023
Sample Property Tax Appeal Letter
Homeowner’s Name
Homeowner’s Address
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
To the Board of Review or Tax Board or Tribunal:
I am sending this letter as notice that I would like to appeal my property tax assessment. The details as to why my home is over assessed are given below.
1. There are three main discrepancies between the property record that was filed and what is actually in my home.
• I have a two car garage, not a three car garage as indicated. Tax value - $2,000
• I have 1,000 square feet of living space not 1,800 square feet as indicated – Tax value $7,000
• I do not have a wooden deck. Tax value - $1,500
Kindly deduct $10,500 from my assessment.
2. There is structural damage to my home that reduces its resale value.
• An exterior wall and the corresponding foundation are severely cracked, which is not mentioned in the assessment. Tax value - $5,000
• The roof leaks in the kitchen. Tax value - $3,000
Kindly deduct $8,000 from my assessment.
3. In comparison to two homes that have recently sold on my street, I am requesting a reevaluation of the value of my home. Both of these houses have similar square feet, age and upgrades.
• The house at ADDRESS sold for $250,000
• The house at ADDRESS sold for $225,000
Kindly change the assessment of my home to $250,000.
The information given in this letter clearly shows that my property taxes have been incorrectly assessed. The assessment shows improvements and upgrades that do not exist in my home. Also, the value of my home should not be more than $250,000.
I am requesting that my tax assessment be adjusted according to the provided information. I would be happy to meet you informally to discuss the situation or will submit a formal request. I can be reached at 555-123-4567 or at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Homeowner’s signature
Homeowner’s Name printed
List of enclosures
By Andre Bradley
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: A Property Tax Appeal Letter is a formal written document submitted by a property owner to appeal or challenge the assessed value of their property for tax purposes. It is a means for property owners to contest the property tax assessment and provide evidence or arguments to support their claim for a lower tax liability.
Q: When should I consider writing a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: You should consider writing a Property Tax Appeal Letter when you believe that the assessed value of your property is higher than its actual fair market value or if you have evidence to support a reduction in your property tax liability. It is typically done during the property tax assessment or valuation period, which may vary depending on your location.
Q: What should I include in a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: In a Property Tax Appeal Letter, you should include your contact information, the property address, the assessed value you are appealing, and a clear explanation of why you believe the assessed value is incorrect. You should also include any supporting documentation such as recent appraisals, comparable property sales, or other evidence that can help substantiate your claim.
Q: How should I format a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: A Property Tax Appeal Letter should be formatted as a formal business letter. It should include a clear and concise introduction stating the purpose of the letter, followed by well-organized paragraphs that present your arguments and supporting evidence. It is important to maintain a professional tone throughout the letter and to conclude with a polite request for a reconsideration of the property tax assessment.
Q: Who should I address the Property Tax Appeal Letter to?
Answer: The Property Tax Appeal Letter should be addressed to the appropriate authority responsible for property tax assessments in your jurisdiction. This could be the local assessor's office, the board of assessors, or any other designated department or individual responsible for reviewing appeals. It is important to research and address the letter to the correct recipient to ensure it reaches the appropriate decision-maker.
Q: Can I seek professional assistance to write a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: Yes, you can seek professional assistance, such as hiring a property tax consultant or an attorney specializing in property tax appeals, to help you prepare and submit a Property Tax Appeal Letter. These professionals can provide guidance on the process, review your property assessment, and help gather relevant evidence to strengthen your case.
Q: Is there a deadline for submitting a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: Yes, there is typically a deadline for submitting a Property Tax Appeal Letter. The specific deadline may vary depending on your jurisdiction and local regulations. It is crucial to check with the appropriate authority or consult a professional to determine the exact deadline for filing your appeal. Missing the deadline may result in the forfeiture of your right to challenge the property tax assessment for that tax year.
Q: What happens after I submit a Property Tax Appeal Letter?
Answer: After you submit a Property Tax Appeal Letter, the authority responsible for property tax assessments will review your appeal and the supporting documentation you provided. They may request additional information or schedule a hearing to further discuss your case. Ultimately, a decision will be made regarding your appeal, and you will be notified of the outcome. If your appeal is successful, your property tax assessment may be adjusted accordingly.
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