Tax appeal dos and don'ts

Do

Mind the deadlines

You might have just 15 to 90 days after a new assessment to appeal.

Observe another homeowner's appeal

The sessions are open to the public. You'll gain insight into the process and the personnel.

Bring lots of proof

Provide five to 10 comps with your appeal. "With fewer than five, an assessor can explain away the differences," says Peter Sepp, a spokesman for the National Taxpayers Union.

Pay your tax bill while your appeal is in process

If you win, you can gain a retroactive refund or credit.

Don't

Air political views

Venting to the assessor about the tax system won't help your case. Talk to your elected officials instead.

Jump at tax-cut solicitations

You might get mail from companies that seek to represent you in a tax dispute for a fee. But they might not be as thorough because they don't know your property as well as you do. If you do use a third party, make sure you understand the payment structure, which might involve a one-time fee, a contingency fee, or both. Check with the Better Business Bureau and your state attorney general's office for any complaints.