The Property (Ad Valorem) Tax Overview
Ad valorem property taxes are levied on real or personal property by local government units including counties, municipalities, school districts, and special taxing districts. Ad valorem means a tax on goods or property expressed as a percentage of the sales price or assessed value. Below you'll find helpful information on how the property (ad valorem) tax is implemented and what say you might have in the process.
What Property is Taxed?
Taxes on Real Property. "Real property" for property tax purposes generally includes the land, building, structures, and all improvements or fixtures annexed to the building or structure. The definition of real property often excludes business personal property such as tools, implements, machinery, and equipment attached to or installed as real property for use in the business.
Taxes on Personal Property. Taxing authorities may also tax personal property. The items taxed vary by jurisdiction but most jurisdictions do not impose property taxes on household goods, inventories, and intangible personal property such as tax and bonds. Motor vehicles, however, are often subject to ad valorem taxation.
Determining the Amount of Ad Valorem Taxes
Generally ad valorem taxes are assessed as of January 1st of each year, and are computed as a percentage of the assessed value of the property being taxed. The assessed value of property generally means the annual determination of fair market value. "Fair market value" is usually defined as the price that a willing buyer would pay and a willing seller would accept for property, neither being under any compulsion to buy or to sell. It is also defined as the price at which property would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller when both have reasonable knowledge of all the facts necessary and neither is required to buy or sell.
Appraisers hired by the taxing authority most often value the property. Most taxing authorities require periodic inspections of the subject property as part of the valuation process and establish appraisal criteria to determine fair market value. Such criteria include factors analyzing:
Disputing Valuation
Upon notification of assessment, the property owner may dispute the valuation. Generally taxpayers may request a hearing at the local level and, if necessary, appeal the valuation to a higher agency and ultimately a tax court.
Levy of Tax and Classification
Once a value is determined, the tax is levied, and the property owner is notified. The actual tax rate may vary depending on the property's classification. Property is often classified according to its use. Common classifications include commercial/industrial property, multiple dwelling property, residential homestead property, agricultural property, and business property.
Property Tax Issues? Get Help From a Tax Law Attorney
Property taxes come in different shapes and sizes, but they all feel the same when they hit your pocket book. One of the issues that often arises is how a local tax authority assesses the value of your property as this determines the amount you will have to pay. Avoid surprises and speak with an attorney specializing in tax law today.
