Tax Assessor

The primary responsibilities of the Tax Assessor are:

  • Identify the fair market value of all properties within the Township according the statutes of the New Jersey Division of Taxation
  • Review all building permits and home improvements to determine any changes in fair market value
  • Maintain property transfer records, keeping current ownership updated
  • Review and approve all applications for tax deductions and exemptions

Property Tax Assessment Cards are mailed out in February of each year. The card shows the total tax for the prior year and the assessed value.

How Home Improvements May Affect Your Assessment

Improvements to your home not only make it more comfortable and attractive but also make it more valuable. When you are issued a building permit, you may expect visits from both the Assessor and the construction official as their duties require.

Not all improvements will result in added assessments; some of the most common improvements are listed below.

Assessable

  • Additions
  • Air Conditioning
  • Brick Facing (1 story or more)
  • Decks, enclosed porch or deck
  • Finished basement
  • Fireplace(wood, coal or gas)
  • Garage conversions and carports
  • Inground pools
  • Kitchens and bathrooms
  • Shed(larger than 10x10)
  • Siding

Not Assessable

  • Fences
  • Sheds smaller than 10x10
  • Paint
  • Replacement windows
  • Skylights
  • Jungle gym or play platform
  • Above ground pools

If the improvements to your home increase its market value your property tax assessment will increase. Added Assessment bills for improvements are issued in October and payable on November 1st along with the Original Tax Bill. It also has a preliminary Tax Bill due February and May along with the Original Bill.

How to Appeal Your Assessment

Property owners who believe their assessments do not reflect market value have the right to an appeal with the Bergen County Board of Taxation. Tax Appeal applications are available from the Bergen County Board of Taxation after February 1st. These forms may be obtained at the county office located at 1 Bergen County Plaza in Hackensack or by calling (201) 336-6300.

Appeals must be filed by April 1st or 45 days from the date the assessment notifications are mailed, whichever is later. Please note there is a filing fee for all tax appeals. The amount of the fee varies based on the assessed value of your home and the type of appeal being filed.

Appealing Added Assessments
Appeals on Added Assessment bills are filed on or before December 1st with the Bergen County Board of Taxation.

The Tax Assessor represents the Township in all cases brought before the county or state. For more information on Tax Appeals please visit the Bergen County Board of Taxation web site at /www.co.bergen.nj.us/taxboard/appeal.html.