As a homeowner or property owner in Sarasota County, Florida, you may have noticed that your property taxes have increased over the years. This is due to the county's tax policies, which are put in place to fund various public services and infrastructure projects. While paying taxes is a civic duty, it can be frustrating to see your tax bill increase year after year. Fortunately, there is a process for appealing property taxes in Sarasota County.
The Basics of Property Taxes in Sarasota County
Before diving into the appeal process, it's important to understand how property taxes are calculated in Sarasota County.The county appraiser's office determines the value of your property based on its market value and any improvements made to the property. This value is then multiplied by the millage rate, which is set by the county commission and other local taxing authorities. The resulting amount is your property tax bill. In Sarasota County, the millage rate for 2021 is 3.3912 mills, which means that for every $1,000 of assessed value, you will owe $3.3912 in taxes. For example, if your property is valued at $200,000, your tax bill would be $678.24 ($200,000 x 0.0033912).
The Property Tax Appeal Process
If you believe that your property has been overvalued or that the millage rate is too high, you have the right to appeal your property taxes.The appeal process begins with contacting the county appraiser's office and requesting an informal review of your property's value. This can be done online or by filling out a form and submitting it to the appraiser's office. During the informal review, the appraiser's office will consider any evidence you provide to support your claim that your property is overvalued. This can include recent sales of similar properties in your area, any damage or defects to your property, or any other factors that may affect its value. If the appraiser's office agrees that your property has been overvalued, they will adjust the assessed value and send you a revised tax bill. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the informal review, you can then file a formal appeal with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB).
The VAB is an independent board made up of citizens and appointed officials who are responsible for hearing property tax appeals. The deadline to file a formal appeal is typically in mid-September, but it is best to check with the VAB for the exact date each year. When filing a formal appeal, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim, just as you did during the informal review. You will also need to pay a filing fee, which is currently $15 for residential properties and $30 for commercial properties. The VAB will schedule a hearing where you can present your case and the appraiser's office will present their evidence as well.
The VAB will then make a decision and notify you of their ruling.
Other Options for Property Tax Relief
In addition to appealing your property taxes, there are other options available for property tax relief in Sarasota County. These include exemptions for certain groups such as veterans, seniors, and disabled individuals. There are also programs in place for low-income homeowners who may struggle to pay their property taxes. It's important to note that these exemptions and programs have specific eligibility requirements and deadlines for application. It's best to contact the county appraiser's office or visit their website for more information on these options.Final Thoughts
The property tax appeal process in Sarasota County can be complex and time-consuming, but it is worth pursuing if you believe your property taxes are too high.It's important to gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim and to be aware of all deadlines and requirements. If you are unsure about the process, it may be helpful to consult with a real estate attorney or tax professional who can guide you through the appeal process. Ultimately, the goal of appealing property taxes is to ensure that you are paying a fair and accurate amount based on the value of your property. By understanding the tax policies in Sarasota County and knowing your rights as a property owner, you can navigate the appeal process with confidence and potentially save money on your tax bill.
