What Is Appeal Deadline?

The last date by which a property owner must file a formal appeal of their property tax assessment. Missing this deadline means waiting until the next tax year.

Detailed Explanation

The appeal deadline is the most important date in the property tax calendar. Miss it, and you lose your right to challenge your assessment for the entire tax year. There are no extensions, hardship waivers, or second chances in most jurisdictions. The deadline varies dramatically by state. Some states have fixed annual deadlines that are the same every year. Texas uses May 15 (or 30 days after the notice is mailed, whichever is later). California's regular roll deadline is September 15, with a supplemental roll deadline of November 30. Other states tie the deadline to when your assessment notice is mailed. Florida gives 25 days from the TRIM notice. Georgia allows 45 days from the assessment change notice. New York uses a specific Grievance Day, typically the third Tuesday in May. A few states have rolling deadlines throughout the year depending on when your county completes its reassessment cycle. The safest approach is to check your state's deadline well before assessment notices are mailed, mark the date on your calendar, and file early. Filing early gives you more time to gather evidence. You do not need to have all your evidence ready when you file. In most states, you can submit your supporting documentation after the initial filing, up to or at the hearing itself.

How It Varies by State

TexasMay 15 or 30 days after notice

Whichever is later. File protest form online or by mail. Filing is free. Evidence can be submitted at the hearing.

CaliforniaSep 15 or Nov 30

Regular roll: September 15. Supplemental roll (new purchases, new construction): within 60 days of notice. Assessment Appeals Board application required.

Florida25 days after TRIM notice

TRIM notices mailed in August. Petition to Value Adjustment Board. Filing fee required (typically $15 for properties under $500K).

IllinoisVaries by county (30-day window)

Cook County: 30 days after assessment is published for your township. Varies by reassessment cycle.

New YorkGrievance Day (typically 3rd Tuesday in May)

Varies by municipality. Must file by close of business. Late filings are not accepted.

Common Misconceptions

Myth:I can appeal any time during the year

Reality:In most states, there is a specific window that opens when assessments are published and closes on a firm deadline. Outside this window, you cannot file.

Myth:If I miss the deadline, I can appeal next year for both years

Reality:Each tax year stands alone. Missing the deadline forfeits your right to appeal that year's assessment. You can only appeal the current year when the next window opens.

Myth:Filing early means a weaker case

Reality:Filing early simply secures your right to a hearing. You do not need to present your evidence at the time of filing. Gather your comparable sales and other evidence before the hearing date.

Impact on Your Tax Bill

If your property is overassessed by $40,000 and you miss the appeal deadline, at a 2% effective tax rate, you pay an extra $800 that year with no recourse. If you miss the deadline two years in a row, that is $1,600 in unnecessary taxes. Filing on time costs nothing in most states.

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