Appealing Your Anchorage Property Assessment

The 2011 property assessment notices for Anchorage homes were mailed out on January 14th.  You have until February 13th to appeal your Anchorage property assessment if you find errors or think there may have been a mistake made.

Appealing Your Anchorage Property Assessment Value
Anchorage homeowners must fill out a written appeal form that specifies the reason for the appeal and pay a filing deposit within 30 days of the assessment notice mailing (in this case, 30 days from January 14, 2011).  In addition, you must provide evidence that supports the reason for your appeal within 45 days of the notice's mailing.  In some cases, your filing fee may be refundable.

It's a good idea to contact the Assessors Office or review their website before you file your appeal.  During the 30 day time period, the assessments can usually be reviewed and/or adjusted without having to go through a formal appeals process.

Who Can Legally Appeal?
Only the owner of record or someone they have legally assigned to represent them can make an appeal to the Board of Equalization.

Can Property Taxes be Appealed?
No.  Only property assessment appeals can be made.

What Info Should be Provided with Your Appeal?
When you file an appeal, the following should be included in the paperwork:

• Your Anchorage property's parcel number
• Why you believe your assessed value doesn't reflect the true value of your Anchorage property
• Supporting evidence of your position, such as comparable sales
• Your signature and the signature of your representative (if appropriate)
• A completed appeals form (both sides)

After you send in your appeal, the appraiser will review your paperwork.  At that time, they may contact you for more information, if necessary.  If you do not agree with their revised value, your appeal will then be sent to the Board of Equalization for a hearing.  You are still responsible for your property taxes when they are due, even if you are going through the appeals process.  So, make sure you pay them on time to avoid any penalties.

Appealing your Anchorage property assessment is not as scary as it sounds.  If you feel that there was an error made, you have every right to check out an appeal.  Just make sure you get this done before the February 13, 2011 deadline.

Pauline Hofseth, your Anchorage real estate specialist