Q: If the county hasn't charged us correctly for our property taxes, what are we responsible to pay?
The county says that they don't have a building permit on file for our home that we build on farm land. We have an occupancy permit but they are saying that we owe for back taxes not charged correctly and any penalties. Please advise.
A: The county uses building permits to identify when a property is being improved and needs a tax valuation appraisal. If you didn't get that permit to build the house, then the county didn't know to appraise it and charge real estate taxes on it. So now the county will determine any back real estate taxes taxes and penalties that they think you owe, and they will send you a tax bill of that amount. If you dispute that bill, then you can file a complaint with your local board of revision seeking an adjustment if you have a valid basis. But if your property is now worth more because you built a house, then the county can charge you additional real estate tax. Check with your local county auditor for the process to file a complaint with the board of revision. Be aware that there are specific time limits to file a complaint. Consult with a local attorney about the process. Use the Find a Lawyer tab or check with your local bar association.
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