The New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA), in collaboration with New Jersey Realtors and the Association of Municipal Assessors of New Jersey (AMANJ), has released an updated version of the “New Jersey Homeowner’s Guide to Property Taxes.” The guide, available online for free, explains how property taxes are determined by each taxing district, where the funds go, and provides information on how homeowners can appeal their property assessments.
First published in 2018, the revised 16-page guide details what factors influence property assessments, outlines the responsibilities of tax assessors, and explains how tax bills are calculated. It also includes a calendar covering the full property tax cycle and a checklist for homeowners. This edition adds new explanations about state property tax relief programs for both homeowners and renters and updates information on disbursements.
Marc Pfeiffer, associate director at the Center for Urban Policy Research at Rutgers University’s Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and author of the report, stated: “At a time when property taxes are a central concern for homeowners across the state, giving residents the tools to understand how their tax bills are calculated, what the money pays for and what rights they have as taxpayers is a meaningful contribution to civic literacy.” He added: “Informed citizens make better decisions and ask better questions of their government. The Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy is proud to participate in this collaboration with the NJCPA, New Jersey Realtors and the Association of Municipal Assessors.”
Gloria Siciliano, President of New Jersey Realtors and business owner at RE/MAX Gateway, emphasized that property taxes remain one of the largest financial issues facing homeowners in New Jersey. She said: “With this updated guide, we hope to provide a trusted, accessible resource that answers essential questions and helps homeowners navigate the system with confidence. We’re proud to partner in educating and strengthening our New Jersey communities.”
Dennis DeKlerk, President of AMANJ, described municipal tax assessors as an important part of New Jersey’s property tax structure. “With a basis in the state constitution, the local assessor values property within their jurisdiction fairly and equitably according to market value, which distributes the property tax burden,” DeKlerk said. “A critical function is to be a resource for property owners and be a local reliable agent who is available to help navigate all aspects of New Jersey property tax law. In boroughs, townships and cities across the state, Municipal Tax Assessors are ready to guide residents through a complex system and AMANJ is grateful for the opportunity to share in sponsorship of this publication.”
Aiysha (AJ) Johnson, CEO and Executive Director at NJCPA commented: “This useful guide is a must-read for homeowners in our state to better understand the process of property taxes, which is a pain point for many New Jersey taxpayers. We are pleased to have worked again with these valued organizations to provide this service.”
The updated guide can be accessed at njproptaxguide.com.
The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) represents private-sector employers throughout New Jersey as well as serving as one of the nation’s largest statewide employer associations. The organization advances its members’ competitive excellence while providing essential information such as advocacy resources aimed at supporting business prosperity. Michele Siekerka serves as president and chief executive officer. The association also promotes partnerships among businesses along with government entities or academic institutions.