Suffolk County homeowners have just two weeks left to take action that could lower their property tax bills.
The deadline to file a tax grievance is May 19, and experts say many homeowners are missing out on potential savings. Michele La Grassa, a tax assessment advisor with Heller & Consultants, says those who file save an average of about $1,500 a year, sometimes more.
Some homeowners hesitate to file out of concern their taxes could increase, but La Grassa says that’s not the case. If a grievance is denied, the tax bill remains the same, and homeowners can try again the following year.
She adds that even homeowners who already receive exemptions, such as STAR or veterans benefits, may still be overpaying and are eligible to grieve their taxes.
Lowering a home’s assessed value can also make it more attractive to buyers by improving affordability and offsetting rising tax rates.