If your assessed value is higher than what your home would actually sell for, or higher than similar homes nearby, you can appeal. Check your assessment notice for the deadline (often 30 to 90 days), gather recent comparable sales and any errors in the property record, and file with your local assessor or board of review. Many appeals are resolved informally, and you don’t need a lawyer for most homes.
Is your assessment too high?
- Compare your assessed value (converted to market value, if your area assesses at a percentage) with what your home would sell for.
- Compare it with assessments of similar homes on your street; these are public on most assessor websites.
- Check the property record for errors: square footage, bedrooms, bathrooms, a basement or garage you don’t have.
How to appeal
- Find the deadline on your assessment notice or the assessor’s website. Missing it usually means waiting a year.
- Ask for an informal review. Many assessors fix clear errors or adjust values after a conversation.
- Gather evidence: three to five recent sales of similar homes, photos of condition problems, repair estimates, and a recent appraisal if you have one.
- File a formal appeal with the local board of review or equalization if needed, and attend the hearing.
- Appeal further to a state board if you disagree with the result; these are less common for single homes.
What it can save
A $40,000 reduction in assessed market value at a 2% effective rate saves $800 a year, and often for years afterward. Estimate yours with the property tax estimator.
Don’t forget exemptions
Make sure you’ve applied for any homestead, senior, veteran or disability exemptions you qualify for. They can save more than an appeal and only need to be filed once in many places.
A note for new buyers
In many areas your purchase price becomes strong evidence of value, so appeals after a recent purchase usually only succeed if you paid less than the assessment. See property taxes, explained for how sales trigger reassessments.
Beware of appeal services
Companies that mail offers to appeal for you often charge a share of the savings. Many homeowners can file themselves for free.
Common questions
How do I know if my property tax assessment is too high?
Compare it with your home’s market value and with assessments of similar homes nearby, and check the property record for errors.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal my property taxes?
Usually not for a single home. Many appeals are resolved informally with the assessor.
Can my assessment go up if I appeal?
In some places it can. Check local rules before you file.
Updated October 2026. Educational content. OfferBacked is not currently a lender and doesn’t issue pre-approvals or loans.