Ask and File an Appeal at the DeKalb County Tax Assessor

Posted by Jill Noelle Olandria on Jun 3, 2015 11:30:00 AM

It can be safely assumed that many taxpayers have filed their appeals against the Annual Notice of Assessment issued by the DeKalb County Tax Assessor without the appropriate preparation. This significantly decreases their chances for getting reduced assessed values and, hence, property taxes on their assets.

Why become one of these less informed and prepared taxpayers? Ask yourself these questions first before considering filing an appeal and, if you answered “yes” to most or all of these questions, then you can proceed with the process.

DeKalb County Tax Assessor

#1 Are You Willing to Do the Work?

The assessment, appraisal and appeals processes are nothing to scoff at because of the numerous terms, forms and steps involved. Even when you hire somebody else to do the preliminary work including the research on comparable property values, you should still be on top of things, so to speak. Keep in mind that this is your property, money and reputation at stake especially as the tax authorities can seize your asset in case of non-payment of taxes.

Besides, you will be the one communicating with the DeKalb County Tax Assessor about the appeal from providing an appraisal report if you have, to doing research and preparing the appeal for presentation. You will do the work so ask yourself, “Am I willing to put in the time, energy and effort into it?”

The work does not end with research, however, it is the start. You will be required to attend the formal hearings on your appeal, which will require your time and attention (i.e., work) as well.

#2 Are You Willing and Able to Accept Professional Help

You are well-advised to discuss your options with an expert on the appeals process, such as a property tax consultant at Fair Assessments. Said professional can explain the details of the appeals process including the specific factors that can boost your chances of success in your appeal against the assessed value set by the DeKalb County Tax Assessor.

The questions: Are you willing to accept the expert advice of professionals or are you adamant about taking your own counsel? Are you financially in the black to hire an expert or are you on a tight budget? Keep in mind that the professional help comes at a cost.

#3 Are You Prepared for the Costs?

Again, the appeals process is not without its monetary costs, as any taxpayer can tell others. While certain steps will incur no charges, there are documents that must be filed and appeal options that have charges that must be paid.

You must then perform a cost and benefit analysis of your plan to file an appeal against the assessed value set by the DeKalb County Tax Assessor. If you have sufficient reason to believe that the reduction in assessed values will be greater than the overall costs including the professional fees for an independent appraisal report, then filing an appeal is a good move. If not, then you should look into your other options or discuss these options with Fair Assessments.

If you have more questions about the appeals process, we suggest calling DeKalb County Tax Assessor or Fair Assessments now.

property tax appeals

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