Understanding Maryland Property Tax Assessments

What is a Property Tax Assessment?

A property tax assessment is a process where the state or local government determines the value of your property for taxation purposes. This value, also known as the assessed value, is used to calculate the amount of taxes you owe on that property.

It's important to note that this process is separate from the actual sale price of your property. The assessed value may be different from the market value or purchase price of your home.

How is the Assessment Process Conducted?

The assessment process typically begins when a property owner submits a request for a new assessment or when a change in ownership or improvement to the property triggers an automatic reassessment.

A tax assessor will then visit the property and gather information about its size, condition, and any improvements made. This data is used to determine the assessed value of the property.

What Happens if I Disagree with My Assessment?

If you disagree with the assessed value of your property, you have the right to appeal the decision. This can be done by filing an appeal with the local tax authority or by hiring a professional appraiser.

It's important to note that there are time limits for appealing an assessment, so it's essential to act quickly if you're unhappy with the result.