Think Your Birmingham, AL Property Taxes Are Too High? Here’s What You Can Do

Are You Paying Too Much in Property Taxes?

For many Birmingham homeowners, receiving their property tax assessment can be a moment of frustration—or even shock. If the value seems higher than expected, it could mean you're overpaying on your property taxes.

But here’s the good news: you have options.
If you believe your assessment is inaccurate or inflated, there are clear steps you can take to challenge it—and potentially reduce your tax bill.

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Property Tax Assessment?

A property tax assessment is an estimate of your home’s market value set by your local tax assessor’s office. This valuation determines how much you owe in annual property taxes.

In Birmingham, AL (Jefferson and Shelby Counties), assessments are conducted periodically and are based on:

• Recent sales of similar properties

• Property size, location, and condition

• Market trends in your neighborhood

If the assessor’s value is higher than your home’s actual market value, you could be paying more than your fair share.

Reasons Your Assessment Might Be Too High

Not all assessments are perfect. Here are some common reasons they may be off:

• Outdated or incorrect data (square footage, number of bedrooms, improvements)

• Recent downturn in local market conditions

• Comparable sales used were not truly similar

• No adjustment for condition or necessary repairs

If your assessment doesn’t reflect current market realities in your Birmingham neighborhood—such as East Lake, Roebuck, or Ensley—you may have a case for an appeal.

How to Review Your Property Tax Assessment

Here’s how to start:

1. Request a Copy of Your Assessment

Contact your county assessor’s office or check their website. In Jefferson County, you can access this online at jeffconline.jccal.org.

2. Review the Details for Accuracy

Check for errors in:

• Square footage

• Lot size

• Year built

• Renovations or additions

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms

3. Compare to Similar Properties

Pull recent comparable sales (comps) from your neighborhood. A local real estate agent like myself can help with this—free of charge.

Steps to Appeal a High Property Tax Assessment in Birmingham

If you've done your research and still believe the assessed value is too high, you can file an appeal.

📝 Step 1: File a Written Appeal

Submit a formal appeal to the local Board of Equalization within 30 days of receiving your notice. Include:

• A copy of the tax assessment

• Documentation of errors

• Recent comparable sales

• Photos (if showing poor condition or issues)

💼 Step 2: Attend a Hearing (If Scheduled)

You may be invited to a hearing to present your case. Bring all your documentation, and keep your explanation focused and factual.

📬 Step 3: Await the Decision

If successful, your property value—and tax bill—will be adjusted. If not, you may have additional legal recourse through the circuit court.

Tips to Strengthen Your Appeal

• Get a professional CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) from a Birmingham real estate agent

• Include evidence of structural issues or deferred maintenance

• Avoid using distressed or foreclosed homes as comparables—they’re often excluded

• Be respectful and prepared—local officials are more likely to work with you if you’re organized

When to Ask a Professional for Help

Sometimes, it’s worth partnering with a real estate professional or tax consultant. If your Birmingham home is unique, has had major renovations, or is in a transitional neighborhood, expert guidance can make a big difference in your appeal.

I work with homeowners across Birmingham—from Highland Park to Hoover—to help them understand their property’s true market value.

Conclusion: Don’t Overpay—Know Your Rights

If your Birmingham property tax assessment seems too high, you don’t have to accept it blindly. By reviewing the data, comparing recent sales, and submitting a proper appeal, you may be able to lower your tax bill and save hundreds (or thousands) per year.

Need help evaluating your home’s value or preparing for an appeal? I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s Review Your Home’s Value Together

📞 Call: (205) 332-7701
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: bennyroberts.com

I’m Benny Roberts, your trusted real estate expert in Birmingham, AL. Whether you're selling, buying, or just need advice on home value and taxes—I’m here to help.

Let’s make sure your home is valued fairly—and your tax bill is too.