Abatement applications for property taxes are due March 1. Those who feel their real estate assessment is unfairly high may apply for an abatement or reduction of their assessment.
Under state law, municipalities may abate taxes “for good cause shown.” “Good cause” is generally established by showing an error in the assessed value, a disproportionate assessment or other grounds.
Generally, once an abatement application has been submitted, a town employee will reach out to schedule an appointment for a town appraiser or other qualified assessing professional to visit the property. The appraiser will inspect the property to confirm the details as stated in the abatement application. A report is then provided to the assessor, who ultimately determines if property was indeed incorrectly valued.
If the application is approved, the owner will receive a refund of overages paid in taxes, with interest (assuming taxes have been paid), and the assessed value will be corrected. If denied, the taxpayer may appeal to the Board of Tax and Land Appeals (BTLA) or Superior Court.