If you are a homeowner worried about your property taxes and if you feel your assessment is just not right, then opt for a property tax appeal. The appeal has to be in writing and the copies of the property tax appeal letter must be kept as a record of the appeal process. This makes sure your case is not ignored.
PREPARE BEFORE YOU SEND THE PROPERTY TAX APPEAL LETTER
Here are a few steps you need to take before you send out your property tax appeal letter.
The information about your property with regards to the lot size, square feet, construction date, etc has to be right on the property tax bill.
If there are any tax exemptions sought out, make sure it is mentioned.
Research the recent sales and property values in your neighborhood.
Compare the sales with your assessment and if there is a sizable difference make a note of it and inform it when you request for a reassessment.
If you find a big difference between the two appraisals then a contest can be a good idea.
DECIDED TO CONTEST, THEN HERE IS WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
It is common for the appraisal district to make mistakes but, as a homeowner, you should not pay more than your fair share of property taxes. Many homeowners in Texas contest their property tax assessment every year, and most end up saving money. You can too. As the next step, send the property tax appeal letter and request for a formal or an informal review.
THE PROPERTY TAX APPEAL LETTER
Your letter should have the following information:
Contact information of the appraiser who appraised your property
The date when you are planning to submit your letter
A clear subject line
Description of your property along with a parcel number
Mention the reasons for your appeal
Finally, your name along with your signature.
AN EXAMPLE TEMPLATE OF HOW YOU CAN STRUCTURE YOUR LETTER.
The assessor’s address
The assessor’s name
Your name
Your Address
Your City, State, ZIP Code
Date
Sub: Request to appeal my property’s tax assessment
Dear Assessor’s name,
Kindly find this letter as my notice to appeal my property tax assessment. Below are a few reasons listed out that explain why my home is overassessed.
[Mention all the discrepancies in a list format]
As you see from the information provided above I request for a reduction in my property’s value and change my property tax assessment based on the information I have provided. I would be glad to discuss this further. I can be reached at (provide your contact information).
Sincerely,
(Your name and signature)
Know more @ https://www.cutmytaxes.com
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