Deadline looms for filing property tax abatements

Massachusetts Secretary of State William F. Galvin today reminded property owners that Friday is the deadline to file for an abatement of their property taxes in 232 Bay State communities.

Challenges to a tax bill can be made on grounds that the assessed value is too high in relation of similar neighboring properties; that the classification is improper; or that a property is exempt from taxation by law, Galvin's office noted.

“There is recourse for homeowners who believe they are entitled to an abatement, but they have to act in time,” Galvin said in a statement. “This is especially important now when reassessed property values may not reflect sharp declines in home values.”

Citizen Information Service, a division of Galvin's office, has available a brochure of tips that will assist those seeking an abatement; the brochure is on-line at www.sec.state.ma.us/cis and may be obtained by calling this toll-free number 1-800-392-6090, Galvin's office said.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)