Property / Tax Appeals
Contest property tax assessments, real estate valuations, and assessment errors across all US states. Save money with a professional property tax appeal letter.
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What is a property tax appeal?
A property tax appeal is a formal challenge to the assessed value of your property as determined by your local tax assessor. If your property is overassessed, you may be paying more in property taxes than you legally owe.
How to appeal your property tax assessment
Property tax appeal deadlines are strict and vary by state — typically between 30 and 90 days from when you receive your assessment notice. In many states, the deadline is May 15 or within 30 days of the assessment notice. Missing this deadline usually means waiting until next year.
Grounds for a property tax appeal
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1
The assessed value is higher than your property’s actual market value
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2
Errors in property description (wrong size, number of bedrooms, lot size)
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3
Comparable properties in your area are assessed at lower values
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4
Recent damage or deterioration not reflected in the assessment
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5
Incorrect exemptions not applied (senior, veteran, homestead)
Property / Tax Appeals in Montana
Disputing property tax assessments in Montana can be a complex but necessary process for homeowners and businesses. Issues like inaccurate valuations, unfair appraisals, or changes in property classification can lead to higher tax burdens. Fortunately, Montana law provides clear avenues for appealing these decisions, ensuring that taxpayers have the opportunity to challenge assessments they believe are incorrect. Understanding these protections is crucial for safeguarding your financial interests in the state.
Montana law provides a structured process for property and tax appeals. Montana Code Annotated (MCA) 15-2-301 governs appeals of county tax appeal board decisions, allowing taxpayers to present independent appraisals for residential property. All property in Montana is valued every two years. A significant recent legislative change is Senate Bill 507 (2023), which revised tax laws and procedures for both County Tax Appeal Boards (CTAB) and the Montana Tax Appeal Board (MTAB), effective October 1, 2023. This bill aimed to streamline the appeal process and ensure fairness in tax assessments across Montana.
For property tax appeals in Montana, the process typically begins with the County Tax Appeal Board (CTAB). Appeals to the CTAB must be filed within 30 days of receiving your notice of classification and appraisal from the Department of Revenue (DOR), or by the first Monday in June annually. If unsatisfied with the CTAB’s decision, you can appeal to the Montana Tax Appeal Board (MTAB). The MTAB, an independent agency, provides an impartial review of DOR valuations. You can find their appeal form at mtab.mt.gov/appealform. The MTAB can be reached at (406) 444-2839 for general inquiries.
To appeal a property tax assessment in Montana, first gather all relevant documents, including your notice of assessment, property records, and any comparable sales data. Next, file your appeal with the County Tax Appeal Board within the specified timeframe. If necessary, prepare for an appeal to the Montana Tax Appeal Board. Most property tax disputes are resolved within 90 to 180 days. Finally, use the petition generator above to create a formal appeal letter in under two minutes, detailing your grounds for appeal and supporting evidence.