How to Appeal Your Property Taxes
Did you know that 30% to 60% of taxable properties may be over-assessed?¹ If your home’s assessed value is inflated, you could be paying more in property taxes than necessary. Fortunately, homeowners have the right to appeal their property assessments and potentially lower their tax bills—sometimes saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year.²
While the specific appeal process varies by state, here are some general steps to consider when challenging your property tax assessment.
Step 1: Determine If an Appeal Is Justified
Before filing an appeal, you need solid evidence—not just an opinion. Here’s how to determine if your assessment is too high:
Compare Your Home to Similar Properties – Check recent sales data for homes in your neighborhood with comparable size, features, and location. If similar homes are valued lower, you may have a strong case.
Look for Errors in Your Property Record – Verify details like square footage, number of bedrooms, lot size, or improvements. Even a minor error could result in a lower valuation. If you find an obvious mistake, you may be able to correct it without a formal appeal.
Step 2: Weigh the Cost-Benefit of an Appeal
Appealing your property tax assessment may involve filing fees or professional appraisal costs. Before moving forward, consider:
The potential tax savings vs. the cost of appeal.
Legal and professional fees if you hire an attorney or appraiser.
Whether a small reduction in assessed value justifies the effort.
For example, spending $1,000 on an appeal to save only $200 per year may not be worthwhile.
Step 3: Get an Independent Appraisal
To strengthen your appeal, consider hiring a third-party appraiser rather than relying on a local real estate agent’s market estimate. A professional appraisal carries more weight and may be the key to winning your appeal.
Step 4: Follow Your Local Appeal Process
Property tax appeals have strict deadlines and procedures that vary by location. Missing a deadline could mean waiting another year to appeal. Here’s what you should do:
Visit your local assessor’s office or website to understand the appeal process, required forms, and deadlines.
File your appeal on time and submit all necessary documentation.
Be prepared to present your case, either in writing or at an appeal hearing.
Final Thoughts
If you suspect your property is over-assessed, appealing could lead to substantial tax savings over time. However, it’s important to do the research, follow the rules, and weigh the costs before moving forward.
Sources:
National Taxpayers Union (NTU), 2025 Report on Property Assessments, NTU.org
The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for guidance on your specific situation.
