*****IMPORTANT PLEASE READ*****

Why am I receiving a reassessment notice?

The Stafford County code requires the Commissioner of the Revenue to reassess property every two years. Property is to be assessed at 100% of the fair market value.  (Article X Sec. 2 Constitution of Virginia)    

If my property value increased or decreased, does that mean my tax bill will do the same?

No.  The Board of Supervisors through the tax rate determines what your tax bill will be.  They will set the rate in April as part of the County budget process.  The purpose of this reassessment is to determine the fair market value of the property, not to increase county revenue or your tax bill.

Can I use the current tax rate to estimate my tax bill?

No.  Once a reassessment is complete, the tax rate is automatically adjusted to offset the effects of the reassessment and ensure that the real estate tax base does not increase by more than 1% over the previous year.  This rate is referred to as the effective tax rate. (Code of Virginia 58.1-3321)   The Board of Supervisors can only increase the tax rate above the effective tax rate if they hold a public hearing.   

What happens if the county does not assess real property at or near fair market value?

A number of state funding sources for the County are tied to the accuracy of property assessments.  If assessments fall too far below market value state funding can be reduced or even withheld.  

Should I appeal my assessment?

If you feel your assessment does not reflect the true market value of your property or is not comparable to similar properties, you may have a case to appeal your assessment.  Please do not appeal if you think your property value changed by too large a percentage, or if you do not want to pay more in taxes.  In these cases an appeal is not justified.     

Appeal Information

If you feel your property has been assessed in excess of its actual fair market value please follow the steps outlined below to assist you in the appeal process.

1. Visit us www.co.stafford.va.us
2. Under Departments choose Commissioner of the Revenue
3. On the Commissioner of the Revenue homepage click on the 2010 Reassessment tab.
4. Please follow the given instructions carefully.

Or, call us at 540-658-4132 (select option 2 for Real Estate).