One of the good side effects of property values declining is the opportunity of lower property taxes. If you feel that the "Full Cash Value" of your property is greater than the full market value you have two methods of appeal: Administrative or Judicial.  You may appeal the "Full Cash Value" to the County Assessor where your property is located.  The first step of the Administrative Process is to file a petition with the County Assessor.  You must file your appeal within 60 days after the Notice of Value card was mailed to you.  The second step is to request a meeting with the County Assessor's office or submit written evidence that supports your appeal.  If you reach an agreement, no futher appeal is permitted.  If you do not agree with the asessor's decision you move to step three.  You may file a petition with the Board of Equalization for that county.  The petition must be filed within twenty five days of the date the assessor's decision was mailed to you.  If  you are not satisfied with the Board of Equalization's decision then you go to step four.  You may appeal to the Tax Court.  You must file your appeal no later than 60 days after the Board of Equalization decision was mailed to you.

You may also file a petition directly with the Tax Court at any time after receiving the Notice of Value, provided you do not file an administrative appeal.  You must file it no later than December 15. This is the Judicial Process.

Please feel free to call me at (800) 552-1188 for any questions.

Lynne Dewar

Sr. Mortgage Consultant