How To Appeal Your Property Taxes In DC
Homeowners
Did you know that across DC, property taxes have been historically wrong, and in many cases, significantly higher than the actual price of your home?
When in doubt, at the Jenn Smira Team, we help clients prepare the proper documentation in order to navigate the appeals process efficiently and effectively. Not sure where to start? Here are the steps involved with appealing your property taxes in DC today!
#1 Review Your Assessment: The Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) sends property assessment notices annually. Your job? To carefully review this assessment for accuracy in property details, including square footage, building conditions, and any renovations.
#2 File a First-Level Appeal: If you decide to contest the assessment, you must file a first-level appeal, otherwise known as a Request for Assessment Review (RAR). This can be done online or by mail, with the deadline typically falling around April 1. In this appeal, you’ll need to provide certain evidence — such as comparable property sales, recent appraisals, or documentation of property conditions — to support your claim that the assessment is incorrect.
Seeking more educational content around real estate-specific processes in DC? Here are a few posts we suggest delving into next!
#3 Attend the Appeal Hearing: After submitting your appeal, OTR may schedule a hearing to discuss your case. During the hearing, you’ll have the opportunity to present your evidence and explain why you believe the assessment should be lower. This is an informal process, and you can represent yourself, hire an attorney, or use a tax consultant if needed.
#4 Wait for the Decision: After the hearing, OTR will issue a decision. If you disagree with this outcome, however, you can proceed to a second-level appeal with the Real Property Tax Appeals Commission (RPTAC).
#5 Second-Level Appeal with RPTAC: The second-level appeal is more formal than the first. Wondering how it works? Here, you’ll submit additional evidence or arguments to the RPTAC. This appeal usually has a deadline that falls within 30 days of receiving the first-level decision. RPTAC will then schedule a formal hearing and provide a final decision based on the evidence presented.
#6 Further Appeals: If you’re still unsatisfied with the decision presented, you can take the case to the District of Columbia Superior Court, although it’s important to keep in mind that this is a rare and more complex process that usually requires legal representation.
Looking for more guidance on taxes and other financial implications involved in home ownership? Read these blogs next!
- Buying Real Estate As Part Of A Joint Venture: What To Know
- Most Misunderstood Real Estate Terms Today
- Tips For Selling An Investment Property
Tips For Making An Appeal
Preparation: Collect strong evidence like comparable property sales and professional appraisals.
Timeliness: Ensure all forms are filed by their deadlines, as late submissions are generally not accepted.
Professional Assistance: Consulting a tax professional or attorney familiar with DC property tax appeals can improve your chances of success, especially for higher-value properties.
The Homestead Deduction: The Homestead Deduction in Washington, DC, is a property tax benefit for homeowners who use their property as their primary residence. This deduction lowers the property’s assessed value, thereby reducing the amount of property taxes owed.
The Senior Citizen Real Property Tax Relief Program: In DC, senior citizens can benefit from a significant property tax reduction through the Senior Citizen Real Property Tax Relief Program. This program is designed to make homeownership more affordable for seniors by reducing their property tax burden.
Have questions about DC real estate? we’re always happy to help! Get in touch with us directly by calling 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com today!
