Sarasota County Property Tax Appeal, Florida

Step 1: Request an informal review with the Sarasota County Property Appraiser's office by calling (941) 861-8200 to discuss your concerns and present supporting evidence such as comparable sales data or property damage documentation. Issues are often resolved through these informal discussions.

Step 2: If the informal review doesn't resolve the issue, file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board within 25 days of the TRIM notice mailing date, using Florida DOR Form DR-486 either online at the Clerk's VAB portal or by mail/in-person with the required $50 filing fee.

Step 3: Upload supporting evidence through the online VAB portal or submit three copies if appearing in person. Evidence should include comparable sales data, photos of property condition issues, independent appraisals, or repair estimates showing why your assessed value is too high.

Step 4: Attend your hearing before a Special Magistrate appointed by the Value Adjustment Board. You can appear in person, via Microsoft Teams (available since January 2026), or submit evidence without appearing. At the hearing, both you and the Property Appraiser present evidence and testimony, and witnesses may be sworn and cross-examined.

Step 5: The Special Magistrate prepares a written recommendation, which is then presented to the Value Adjustment Board for a final vote. The VAB issues the final written decision within 20 calendar days after the last day the VAB is in session.

Step 6: If you disagree with the VAB decision, you may appeal to the Circuit Court within 60 days of the certification of the tax roll. You must pay the portion of taxes you do not dispute before filing the court appeal.

Step 7: For state-level appeals beyond circuit court, consult with legal counsel about further options through the Florida court system.