It’s the beginning of a new year and the perfect time to reanalyze your finances. In New Hampshire, property owners have an annual opportunity to contest their municipal tax bill. By submitting a tax abatement petition by March 1st homeowners can potentially save thousands of dollars for overassessed real estate.

How Taxes are Assessed

Real estate taxes are calculated using a straightforward formula: assessed fair market value (FMV) multiplied by the municipal tax rate. Because municipal tax rates are uniform statewide, disputing the assessed value gives property owners the best chance at savings.

To determine FMV, municipalities frequently rely on mass appraisals and formulas considering a variety of factors (e.g., lot size, neighborhood favorability, age of home, number of bedrooms). While it may be economical for a municipality to use such methods, properties are not typically given individual attention which can, and often does, lead to overassessments and/or plain errors by municipal assessing authorities.

How an Attorney Can Help

Take a keen look at your 2024 real estate tax bill, and if it seems excessive, consider contacting an attorney for assistance. An experienced tax abatement attorney should have connections with professional real estate appraisers in New Hampshire and can negotiate with your municipality’s tax assessor’s office. Protesting the tax bill is a daunting task alone, especially without solid proof of FMV or the legal savvy of an experienced litigator. The attorney can also handle an appeal to the New Hampshire Superior Court, if needed.

Timeline

2024 tax abatement petitions are due March 1, 2025. The local assessment office has until July 1 to decide on the petition. If the abatement request is denied, property owners can appeal to the Superior Court or the NH Board of Tax and Land Appeals.

At Wescott Law, we have a team of attorneys and paralegals experienced in New Hampshire real estate tax abatements. We will guide you through your options every step of the way. Wescott Law is dedicated to serving the legal needs of businesses and individuals in the Lakes and White Mountains Regions and beyond. Our main office is in Laconia with satellite locations in Meredith and Plymouth. Contact us to schedule a consultation.