If you’re a property owner in Pennsylvania, you’re probably well aware of the importance of your property tax assessment. Your assessment determines how much you owe in property taxes, which can be a significant expense. If you believe that your assessment is inaccurate or unfair, you have the right to contest it. Here’s what you need to know to contest a Pennsylvania tax assessment.
Understand the Assessment Process
Before you can contest your assessment, it’s important to understand how the process works. Every year, the county assesses the value of each property in the county. The assessed value is then used to determine the property taxes owed. If you believe that your assessment is too high, you can appeal it to the county board of assessment appeals.
Gather Evidence
To successfully contest your assessment, you need to gather evidence to support your claim. This might include recent sales of similar properties in your area, as well as any documentation that shows that your property is worth less than the assessed value. For example, if you recently had a home inspection that identified issues that would affect the value of your property, you can use that as evidence.
File an Appeal
Once you have your evidence gathered, you can file an appeal with the county board of assessment appeals. You’ll need to fill out the appropriate form and include your evidence. Be sure to follow all of the instructions carefully and make sure that you submit your appeal within the deadline. In Pennsylvania, the deadline for filing an appeal is typically in August or September.
Attend the Hearing
After you file your appeal, you’ll be notified of a hearing date. At the hearing, you’ll have the opportunity to present your evidence and argue your case. The board will also consider any evidence presented by the county assessor. The board will then make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Consider Further Appeals
If you’re unhappy with the decision of the county board of assessment appeals, you may be able to appeal to the state Board of Finance and Revenue. This is a more formal process and will likely require the assistance of an attorney.
Keep Accurate Records
Throughout the assessment and appeals process, it’s important to keep accurate records of all of your communications and documentation. This includes copies of your appeal forms, any evidence you submit, and any correspondence you receive from the county or state. Keeping accurate records will help you stay organized and ensure that you have all the necessary information if you need to appeal further.
Consider Hiring an Attorney
While it’s possible to contest your assessment on your own, it can be helpful to hire an attorney who is familiar with the process. An attorney can help you navigate the process, gather evidence, and make a strong case. They can also help you understand your legal rights and options for further appeals.
Be Patient
Contesting a tax assessment can be a lengthy process, and it’s important to be patient. It may take several months or longer to receive a decision from the county board of assessment appeals or the state Board of Finance and Revenue. It’s also important to keep in mind that there’s no guarantee that you will receive a reduction in your assessment.
Be Prepared for Future Assessments
Even if you successfully contest your assessment, it’s important to be prepared for future assessments. Property values can change over time, and the county may reassess your property in the future. Keep accurate records of any changes to your property, such as renovations or upgrades, that could affect its value. You may also want to consider hiring a professional appraiser to assess your property value periodically.
As a law firm that specializes in real estate law and tax assessment appeals, we can assist you in contesting a Pennsylvania tax assessment in several ways. We can evaluate your assessment to determine if it’s accurate or if it can be challenged, help you gather evidence to support your claim and file an appeal on your behalf with the county board of assessment appeals. Additionally, we can represent you at the hearing and provide legal counsel throughout the process, answering any questions you may have and ensuring that you understand your rights and options. At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we strive to provide our clients with the best possible outcome for their cases and guide them through the entire process.
We have extensive experience handling tax assessment appeals and can use our knowledge and expertise to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s tax laws and can provide you with the guidance and support you need to contest your assessment successfully.
We understand that the assessment process can be complex and confusing, and that’s why we’re here to help. Our team can provide you with personalized attention and tailor our services to meet your unique needs. We can work with you to develop a strategy that maximizes your chances of success and minimizes the amount of property tax you have to pay.
At Gibson & Perkins, PC, we take pride in providing our clients with high-quality legal services and exceptional customer service. We’re committed to helping you achieve your goals and will do everything we can to ensure that your tax assessment appeal is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
If you’re looking for a law firm that can assist you in contesting a Pennsylvania tax assessment, look no further than Gibson & Perkins, PC. We have the knowledge, expertise, and experience needed to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.