Ways to lower your property tax
Legitimate levers that reduce a property-tax bill: exemptions, an assessment appeal, and relief programs.
Updated Oct 24, 2026
Claim every exemption you qualify for
The simplest reduction is often an exemption you have not filed for — homestead for a primary residence, plus any senior, veteran or disability relief your jurisdiction offers. Each lowers the taxable value before the rate applies.
Exemptions usually need a one-time application by an early-year deadline; check with your assessor that the ones you qualify for are actually on your account.
Check the assessment for errors
Review the assessor's record card for mistakes in square footage, lot size, bedroom count or condition. A factual error that inflates your assessed value is the easiest kind of appeal to win.
Appeal with comparable sales
If recent sales of similar nearby homes are below your assessed value, that gap is the basis of an appeal. See the dedicated guide on how to appeal an assessment for the steps and deadlines.
Ask about relief and deferral programs
Many places offer circuit-breaker credits tied to income, or deferral programs that postpone tax for older owners until the home is sold. These do not lower the rate but can cut or delay what you owe.