Grandmother is receiving letters about owed taxes when she shouldn't owe any, what can we do?

Question

She turns 90 this year, and has lived in the same house for over 20 years, but the tax office said no one was living in he house. She never moved from the house, and she was on a deferral for a long time before now, but she suddenly doesn't have it anymore.

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

First, it’s important to gather all documentation related to your grandmother's property and tax history, including any records of her tax deferral. It sounds like there may be a discrepancy or error in the tax office's records if they believe no one is living at the property. Collecting documents like previous tax bills, proof of residence, and any correspondence from the tax office will be helpful. 
 
Next, schedule a visit or a call with the tax office. Explain the situation clearly: your grandmother has been living continuously in her home, and there seems to be a misunderstanding about her tax deferral status. It might also be beneficial to bring proof of her age and any documentation that shows she was granted a tax deferral. Sometimes face-to-face discussions can help clarify misunderstandings more effectively than written communication. 
 
Finally, if the issue isn't resolved after contacting the tax office, consider consulting with a professional who can offer advice on property taxes or legal issues. They can provide guidance on how to proceed if there’s been an administrative mistake or if further action is needed to protect your grandmother's interests. Keeping meticulous records of all interactions with the tax office during this process will also be crucial in ensuring everything is correctly documented.

Q: Grandmother is receiving letters about owed taxes when she shouldn't owe any, what can we do?