August 22, 2008 TRIM Notices Were Mailed to Sarasota County Property Owners

Today all Sarasota County property owners should be receiving their Notices of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) notice from the Sarasota County Property Appraisers office. The notices were mailed on August 22, 2008. It is important to know the date of the mailing marks the beginning of a 25-day window during which property owners who disagree with the property appraiser's determination may file an appeal with Value Adjustment Board (VAB). Petitions to the VAB must be filed on or before September 16, 2008. Below is an article from the Trim Notice Extra August 2008 from the Sarasota County Property Appraiser's office which was included with all TRIM notices mailed to Sarasota County property owners.

Challenging the Taxable Valuation of Your Property In Sarasota County

Property owners have three options for challenging their property value or tax exemption disapproval. It is not necessary to employ all of them. You can choose one or a combination of the three. It is important to know that each challenge process has certain limitations and deadlines.

Option 1

Informal Conference with the Property Appraiser or his Deputy

This is normally the most successful option since it presents the opportunity for the owner to provide information the property appraiser might not be aware of that could influence the property's value or exemption status. Factual information and regulations guiding the property valuation and tax exemption process can also be explained. Since this is the least expensive and least complicated option, the taxpayer is urged to take advantage of this opportunity regardless of other considerations.

Option 2

Petition the Value Adjustment Board (VAB)

The VAB is a body that is separate and independent from the property appraiser. If you choose this option you must file a petition with the Clerk to the VAB within 25 days of the TRIM Notice mailing. At an administrative hearing, you and a Property Appraiser representative each present evidence before a Magistrate appointed by the VAB to review the evidence and make recommendations. The final determination will be made by the VAB. More information is available under Value Adjustment Board's website.

Option 3

Circuit Court Suit

If you choose this option a formal hearing will be conducted by a Judge. You should consult your attorney or legal professional.

It is important to keep in mind the date of value is not the current date but January 1, 2008.

For TRIM questions and answers please visit the Sarasota County Property Appraisers website.