How do I file for an abatement?

Abatement applications are available by clicking on the link from the previous page or by visiting our office. Abatements can be filed for thirty days following the mailing of the first tax bill of the fiscal year usually during the month of January. 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 5:00 pm 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 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 the 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, at (617) 727-3100.

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.