Jackson County residents can challenge new property tax appraisals through the Board of Equalization as the county undergoes its annual assessment review process beginning Monday.
Jackson County Mayor Jim Morgan said property owners often seek appeals because they believe the assessed value of their land or home is incorrect. Morgan said the meetings allow individuals to present specific evidence to the board to support their interpretation of what the property is worth.
“This gives them a chance to come in and meet with that board,” Morgan said, “And show evidence of what their interpretation or their problem with the appraisal is so that they can try to get it corrected.”
Morgan said residents can determine the accuracy of their assessment by comparing their property to recent sales of comparable homes in their immediate area. Morgan said property owners may also use independent appraisals to highlight discrepancies in the county’s figures.
Morgan said the board provides an avenue for property owners to dispute recent valuations. Morgan said the board serves as a critical step for residents who believe their new tax appraisals are inaccurate.
“The board is made up of citizens of Jackson County and this gives the citizens of our county a chance to dispute the new tax appraisal that we’ve had in the county this year,” Morgan said.
Morgan said the board accepts various forms of documentation during the hearings, including photographs and comparative market data. Morgan said completing this local appeal is a requirement for any resident who wishes to maintain their right to further legal challenges regarding their taxes.
“This is the next step in the process so you go through this process and then if you still disagree with it you get to move on to the next step is my understanding,” Morgan said.
Morgan said the Board of Equalization sessions are held daily at the courthouse through the June 12 deadline. Morgan said while the office is open from 8am to noon, residents should contact the assessor’s office to schedule a specific time.
“It’s better to call for an appointment because that way we don’t have people standing and waiting long periods of time,” Morgan said. “So it’s better to call and make an appointment before you show up.”
Morgan said property owners with questions about the process or their specific assessments should contact the Jackson County Assessor of Property.
