How to challenge your property assessment in Fairbanks North Star Borough

Property owners who disagree with their Fairbanks North Star Borough assessment have 30 days from the mailing date of the January notice to file an appeal. The challenge can only target the property's assessed value, not the tax amount or rate itself.

Appeals can only address the assessed value of the property, not the tax amount or rate, according to the borough assessing department.

The appeal starts with contacting the borough assessing department to speak with the appraiser assigned to the property. Property owners can request an appeal form online at the borough website, by phone, or in person. Appeals must be original and submitted or postmarked within 30 days of the notice date.

Only the record owner or an authorized representative may file an appeal. Valid grounds include excessive valuation, unequal treatment compared to similar properties, improper valuation methods, or undervaluation.

The burden of proof falls on the property owner under Alaska law. Alaska Statute 29.45.210(b) places that responsibility on the appellant.

For residential properties, the strongest evidence is recent sales prices of comparable properties. Commercial property owners should provide financial documentation such as rent rolls, leases, or income and expense reports. Other supporting materials can include fee appraisals, realtor listings, closing statements, property inspection reports, or repair estimates.

After filing, an appraiser reviews the appeal and schedules a property inspection. If the property owner accepts the appraiser's adjusted value, the case settles with a revised valuation notice. If not, the case moves to the Board of Equalization.

The Board of Equalization is composed of citizens and local professionals appointed by the Borough Assembly. It serves as an impartial review body that decides appeals based solely on the evidence presented. Hearings are open to the public.

Property owners receive written notice of their hearing date about two weeks in advance. Both the property owner and the assessor present their cases, and board members may question both parties. If you fail to appear, the hearing may proceed without you unless the Board of Equalization grants a new date.

Property owners must pay their taxes by the due date even if an appeal is pending. Penalties and interest apply to unpaid taxes.

After the board reaches a decision, property owners receive written findings of fact and conclusions of law as the official notice of value. Hearing dates are posted on the borough website. The clerk's office can be reached at 907-459-1401 for scheduling questions.