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District of Columbia Assessor's Office Services

The District of Columbia Tax Assessor is the local official who is responsible for assessing the taxable value of all properties within District of Columbia, and may establish the amount of tax due on that property based on the fair market value appraisal. The District of Columbia assessor's office can help you with many of your property tax related issues, including:

Property Tax Appraisals

The District of Columbia Tax Assessor will appraise the taxable value of each property in his jurisdiction on a yearly basis, based on the features of the property and the fair market value of comparable properties in the same neighbourhood. The assessor's office can provide you with a copy of your property's most recent appraisal on request.

Property Renovations and Re-Appraisals

If you renovate your property (such as by adding living space, bedrooms, or bathrooms), the District of Columbia Assessor will re-appraise your home to reflect the value of your new additions. Renovations may be reported to the Assessor's Office by the zoning board, contractors, or by the homeowner themselves. Unreported renovations will generally be discovered by the Assessor during the next on-site appraisal of the property. The Assessor may also re-appraise a property in the event of significant damage

Paying Your Property Tax

The District of Columbia Tax Assessor can provide you with a copy of your property tax assessment, show you your property tax bill, help you pay your property taxes, or arrange a payment plan. Payments may be made to the county tax collector or treasurer instead of the assessor.

Homestead Exemptions

The District of Columbia Tax Assessor can provide you with an application form for the District of Columbia homestead exemption, which can provide a modest property tax break for properties which are used as the primary residence of their owners. Additional exemptions might be available for farmland, green space, veterans, or others. Call the Assessor's Office and ask for details.

Property Tax Appeals

If you believe your house is unfairly over-assessed, the District of Columbia Tax Assessor can provide you with a tax appeal form and inform you of the tax appeal process. If your appeal is accepted, your property valuation (and property taxes) will be adjusted accordingly.