In many cities and towns in Massachusetts, the assessors are sending out the actual tax bills.

Assessors must value real estate at fair cash value. Fair cash value means fair market value. Given the fact that market values have clearly been flat or declining for four or five years, this is a great time for real estate owners to make better deals with the local Boards of Assessors.

The value of most real estate has declined in recent years. However, assessors in cash poor cities and towns are often not willing or able for obvious reasons to accept that real estate values have declined.

Because of this, taxpayers should examine their tax bills carefully and should consider filing for an abatement.

It is important to remember that the procedure for applying for an abatement with the local assessors and for filing an appeal with the Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board are all governed by strict time requirements.

An application for abatement must be filed with the assessors within thirty (30) days after the actual tax bill is mailed. It is important to note that the thirty (30) day time period is triggered by the mailing of the bill by the assessors and not by the receipt of the bill by the taxpayer. The taxpayer must file the application and pay the tax within the thirty (30) day time period in order to be eligible for a tax abatement. In the event the assessors do not grant an abatement, the next step is to file an appeal with the Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board.

Best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2010.

Cordially,

Saul

Download Application for Abatement form (PDF)