Key Deadlines for Contesting New Hampshire Property Tax Assessments

Property tax bills will be hitting mailboxes in New Hampshire this December, and they’re based on the local assessor’s opinion of the property’s fair market value. While that assessed value might seem like the final word, it’s not set in stone. In fact, there are several reasons your clients might want to challenge it—and doing so could save property owners significant money.

Assessors often rely on “mass appraisal” techniques, using computer models to calculate property values. While this approach might be efficient, it’s not always accurate, especially for underperforming properties. Issues like commercial vacancies, declining rental income, rising expenses, or property damage can all lead to inflated assessments.

If any of these scenarios apply, now is the time to act.

To contest the 2024 tax assessment reflected on December’s bill, you must file an abatement petition no later than March 1, 2025. After submitting the petition, the local assessment office has until July 1 to make a decision. If they deny your request, there’s still an opportunity to escalate the case by appealing to either the Superior Court or the New Hampshire Board of Tax and Land Appeals.

For CPA and real estate professionals, understanding these processes is critical. Property owners will likely turn to you for advice on whether their assessments are fair and how to navigate an abatement. Identifying discrepancies in assessed values could create significant savings for your clients and strengthen your role as their trusted advisor.

Don’t wait until the last minute to start evaluating your property assessments or advising clients. Take a proactive approach now by reviewing tax bills and considering potential abatement opportunities.

Contact our Fixed Asset Services team with any questions on property tax assessments or appeals.