| Date: | April 2, 2020 |
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Many homeowners in Buffalo have struggled this year as their home assessments have increased sharply and will likely result in July 2020 tax bills that they cannot afford. For those went through the Board of Assessment Review (BAR) process but would still like to challenge their assessment, there's one more avenue left: Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR). The deadline for SCAR has been extended to April 29, 2020. (EDIT 4/17/20 - The governor extended the deadline again from April 19 to April 29.)
Who can challenge their assessment through the SCAR process? An owner-occupier of a one, two or three-family home who also went through the BAR process to contest their assessment in January 2020. If you did not challenge your assessment with the BAR, you cannot challenge your assessment through SCAR.
How do I start the SCAR process? Fill out this form and file it with the court. Here is a guide to help you fill out the form. It will cost $35 to file the case with the court.
What should I bring with me to my SCAR court date? When you file your paperwork with the court, you will get a court date to return. You should bring any evidence to the court that will help show why your home is worth less than its been appraised at. It's recommended that you hire a professional appraiser to appraise your property, but it is not required.
**NOTE: The NYS Court system is currently closed due to COVID-19. So, while the deadline to file a SCAR challenge has been extended to April 29, NYS has not provided clear guidance on how you can file the paperwork with the court. We will update this page when we receive information on how to do so.**