Q. What is a tax grievance?
A. A tax grievance is a process whereby you are challenging the assessed value of your home. The assessed value is a numerical amount that determines how much the town thinks your house is worth and ultimately the taxes that you pay. The lower your assessed value is, the lower your taxes will be.
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Q. When can I file a grievance?
A. A grievance can be filed once a year in the Town of Brookhaven from May 1st to the third Tuesday in May.
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Q. How much will I save?
A. The answer is unfortunately, it depends. Some homes are assessed properly and if this is the case, I will not take the case. If your house is over assessed (i.e. the town thinks it is worth more than it is), I will make every effort to insure that you obtain a maximum reduction.
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Q. What is the basis for challenging the assessed value?
A. If you have recently bought your home and it was an arms length transfer (not a purchase from a relative or a bank), this is great proof of your homes value. I can also use comparable sales in your area of homes that have sold that are similar to yours, or even homes that are listed for sale. If you have no proof, an appraisal can also be ordered and used.
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Q. Can my taxes be raised by filing a grievance?
A. No. By challenging the assessed value, it can only go lower. If it was unsuccessful it would remain the same.
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Q. Can my star exemption be affected by filing a grievance?
A. No change would occur, successful or not.
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Q. What is the fee that is charged?
A. 50% of the tax savings for the year in which I file on your behalf. See the contract and authorization for a clear explanation of your financial responsibilities. However, if no reduction is received, NO FEE IS CHARGED.
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