How do I file for an abatement?

Abatement applications are available in our office or from the Massachusetts Division of Local Services website (View the Real Estate and Personal Property Abatement Form (PDF)). If you are unable to get to the office during business hours, we will mail an application to you. Abatements can be filed for thirty days following the mailing of the first Actual tax bill usually by January 1.

The filing deadline is always 30 days from the mailing/due date of tax payment.

Please keep in mind the Board of Assessors has no jurisdiction to act on an application that is filed later than the day the abatement application is due.

The Board of Assessors looks for persuasive evidence before changing any assessment. Applications should include a complete description of factual errors. For example, errors in the number of baths, year built, square footage of the living area, etc. Factual errors usually require a site visit. Or, if you believe your property is over-assessed, provide an analysis of comparable sale properties with your abatement application. The analysis should include at least three recent sales of homes that are similar to yours in characteristics such as style, living area, number of bedrooms, lot size, and location. Property record cards are available to support your claim. Recent sale prices can also be found in our office.

You will receive a notice of decision on your application. If an abatement is granted, your last quarter tax bill will be reduced by the amount of abatement. If the Board of Assessors denies your application, there is an additional appeal process available. The appeal must be filed within ninety days of the Board of Assessors' decision by contacting:

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board
100 Cambridge Street
Suite 200
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617-727-3100

Forms are available on the Appellate Tax Board website.

Filing an application for abatement does not stay the collection of your taxes. In order to preserve your rights of appeal, pay the tax when due.


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1. I just bought property this year, why is the prior owner still on the tax bill?
2. How is my assessed value determined each year?
3. Why won't the town send my tax bill directly to my bank or mortgage company?
4. What is State Certification / Revaluation?
5. Will someone be inspecting my house?
6. How do I find out what my new assessment is?
7. If my assessment increases will my property taxes increase?
8. If assessments increase and the tax rate stays about the same, why don't we leave the assessment the same?
9. Can I review my annual property assessment with someone after receiving the bill?
10. Should I file for an abatement on my property tax?
11. How do I file for an abatement?
12. If I have questions about real estate abatements or exemptions, who can I call?
13. How does a building permit affect the value of my property?
14. What is the Supplemental Tax Bill?
15. What are my tax dollars used for?
16. If I have a question regarding payment of taxes, who do I call?
17. Can I get a copy of the deed and plot plan of my property?