Tax Grievance Process in New York

Tax Grievance Process in New York

Navigating the tax grievance process in New York can be complex but essential for homeowners seeking to ensure their property taxes are fair and equitable. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand how property appraisals play a crucial role in this process.

What is a Tax Grievance?

A tax grievance is a formal complaint filed by a property owner who believes that their property has been over-assessed, resulting in higher property taxes. This process allows homeowners to contest the valuation of their property and potentially lower their tax burden.

Steps in the Tax Grievance Process

• • Review Your Property Assessment Notice: Every year, property owners receive a notice of assessment from their local assessor’s office. This notice outlines the assessed value of your property, which directly influences your property tax bill.
  • Conduct a Property Appraisal: Before filing a grievance, it is advisable to have an independent appraisal conducted to determine the fair market value of your property. Urban Appraisals can provide a detailed analysis to support your case, ensuring that your property’s assessed value aligns with its current market worth.
  • File a Grievance Application: The grievance must be filed with the local Board of Assessment Review (BAR). Each municipality has specific deadlines and forms, so it is crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure your application is considered.
    
    • Grievance Day: This is the deadline for submitting Form RP-524 and the day that the BAR meets to hear complaints. In most communities, Grievance Day is the fourth Tuesday in May, but you should confirm the date with your assessor or municipal clerk. Visit Municipal Profiles for local contact information.
    • Some Exceptions: 
      
      • Nassau County: Complaints must be filed by March 1.
      • Suffolk County: Town BARs meet on the third Tuesday in May.
      • Westchester County: Town BARs meet on the third Tuesday in June.
      • For more info go to Grievance procedures

• • Prepare for the Hearing: If your grievance is not resolved through the initial application, you may need to present your case at a hearing. It’s beneficial to have a professional appraiser present evidence and argue on your behalf. Our experts at Urban Appraisals are experienced in providing testimony and supporting documentation.
  • Await the Decision: After the hearing, the Board of Assessment Review will issue a decision. If your grievance is successful, you may receive a reduction in your property’s assessed value, leading to lower property taxes.
  • Further Appeals: If you’re unsatisfied with the board’s decision, you have the option to appeal to the New York State Supreme Court’s Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR) or pursue other legal avenues.
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Importance of Accurate Property Appraisals

Accurate property appraisals are crucial in the tax grievance process. They provide a professional and objective assessment of your property’s value, which is essential for challenging an over-assessment. Urban Appraisals’ expertise ensures that you have a reliable valuation to support your grievance, potentially saving you significant amounts in property taxes. If you need tax grievance appraisal, contact us today to request a quote. 

By understanding and effectively navigating the tax grievance process, you can ensure that your property taxes reflect an accurate valuation of your home, leading to fairer taxation and financial savings.