Make your Alberta business property taxes more "appealing"

Property taxes can be a significant cost to your business. When the tax bill arrives, it can be frustrating to realize you are too late to appeal you assessment. To ensure your taxes are fair, take time to review your property assessment notice that arrives prior to the tax bill in January/February.

If you feel the government has not set a reasonable value on your property, act quickly to appeal before the deadline. Your assessment notice will have all the details you require to review your assessment details and will specify the deadline to submit an appeal. For further information, Alberta Municipal Affairs has a general link Alberta Property Assessment Overview.

If you miss the deadline this year, you will not have an opportunity to appeal until next year.

We are aware there are businesses who have successfully appealed their assessments when filed within the customer review period. You may wish to consult with your accountant (CPA) or lawyer for further guidance.

Many factors are considered when setting value. Here are a few points to consider:

• Location, size, age, quality and condition: Is the physical description of the property correct? Are they using the right square footage? Is there a difference in gross area, leasable/rentable area and usable area?
• Property Class: Has the right class been assigned (institutional, other, etc.)?
• Local real estate market conditions in the reference year: What data was used to compare to your property?
• Comparison to similar properties: Was your property compared to others? Which ones? Have you studied other properties in your area?
• Tax exemptions may apply: Should the property be exempt from municipal or school taxes, or both?

Should you disagree with the assessment, first talk with your Assessor or your local District Assessment Office. If unsatisfied, appeal before your deadline as printed on your assessment notice and in the media. Prepare to attend a hearing to explain your reasons, including evidence and/or witnesses.

Appeals can be based on:

• The amount of the assessed value;
• Whether the property is in the correct property class; and,
• Whether the property should be exempt from municipal and/or school taxes.

Still have questions?

CFIB members are welcome to contact a Business Advisor to find out more by calling 1-888-234-2232