How do I file for an abatement?
Abatement applications are available in our office or from the Massachusetts Division of Local Services web site. If you are unable to get to the office during business hours, we will mail an application to you. Abatements can be filed for thirty days following the mailing of the first tax bill of the fiscal year usually during the month of October. The filing deadline is always printed on the tax bill. Please keep in mind the Board of Assessors has no jurisdiction to act on an application that is filed later than 4:30PM on the day the abatement application is due.

The Board of Assessors looks for persuasive evidence before changing any assessment. Applications should include a complete description of factual errors. For example, errors in number of baths, year built, square footage of living area etc. Factual errors usually require a site visit. Or, if you believe your property is over-assessed, provide an analysis of comparable sale properties with your abatement application. The analysis should include at least three recent sales of homes that are similar to yours in characteristics such as style, living area, number of bedrooms, lot size and location. Property record cards are available to support your claim.

You will receive a notice of decision on your application within three months of the date you filled an application. If an abatement is granted, your second half tax bill will be reduced by the amount of abatement. If the Board of Assessors denies your application, there is an additional appeal process available. The appeal must be filed within ninety days of the Board of Assessors decision by contacting the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board, 399 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108-5292, (617) 727-3100. Forms are available on the Appellate Tax Board web site.

Filing an application for abatement does not stay the collection of your taxes. In order to preserve your rights of appeal, pay the tax when due.

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1. If I have questions about real estate abatements, exemptions, deferrals, or motor vehicle excise tax who can I call?
2. How is my assessed value determined each year?
3. I just bought property this year, why is the prior owner still on the tax bill?
4. Should I file for abatement on my property tax?
5. What is State Certification/Revaluation?
6. How do I file for an abatement?
7. How does a building permit affect the value of my property?
8. Can I get a copy of the deed and plot plan of my property?
9. What are my tax dollars used for?
10. If I have a question regarding payment of taxes, who do I call?
11. What is motor vehicle excise tax?
12. EXEMPTIONS - Do I qualify for a real estate tax exemption?
13. Do I qualify for a Tax Deferral?
14. What are the qualifications of the Senior Work Off program?
15. Who can apply for a Form 3ABC?
16. What are the Chapter 61, 61A, 61B AGRICULTURAL TAX DEFERRAL PROGRAMS?