How to Appeal Your Property Tax in Massachusetts
Massachusetts homeowners can appeal their property tax assessment if they believe it's too high. This guide covers the 2026 appeal deadline, required evidence, and step-by-step process.
2026 Appeal Deadline: February 1
Don't miss your window. Missing the deadline means waiting another full year.
How Massachusetts Assesses Property
Massachusetts assesses residential property at 100% of market value.
Massachusetts assesses property at 100% of full and fair cash value.
The Appeal Process
Appeals are heard by the Appellate Tax Board. An informal review is available before filing a formal appeal.
Board of Assessors (Abatement Application)
Appellate Tax Board
Appeals Court
Massachusetts Appeal Deadline
What Overassessment Costs Massachusetts Homeowners
The median home in Massachusetts is worth $466,000. If your assessment is just 10% too high, you may be overpaying:
~$522/year
Effective tax rate: 1.12% · Median value: $466,000
Check Your Massachusetts Assessment
Enter your address to see your estimated overassessment and Massachusetts filing deadline.
Massachusetts Counties
Essex County
Median: $578,100 · Rate: 1.12%
Deadline: February 1, 2026 or three months after the actual (third quarter) tax bill is mailed, whichever is later
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Middlesex County
Median: $687,200 · Rate: 1.22%
Deadline: February 1, 2026, or 30 days from the mailing date of the third-quarter actual tax bill, whichever is later
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Norfolk County
Median: $592,100 · Rate: 1.18%
Deadline: February 1, 2026 (or within 30 days of the first installment of the actual property tax bill, typically the third quarter bill)
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Suffolk County
Median: $641,300 · Rate: 1.07%
Deadline: February 2, 2026 for Fiscal Year 2026
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Worcester County
Median: $282,800 · Rate: 1.43%
Deadline: 30 days from the mailing of the Third Quarter actual tax bill, usually January 2 through February 2 each year
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Guides & Resources
Property Tax Appeal Resources
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2026 Appeal Deadlines
Every state's deadline, filing method, and what happens if you miss it.
Assessment Ratios by State
Every state's assessment percentage — from 4% to 100% — with worked examples.
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Savings Calculator
Check if you're overassessed — enter your assessed value to see potential savings.