Maryland homeowners are bracing for shocking property tax bills in 2025 — reassessments skyrocket as high as 35%. Here’s what to do if you receive a similarly stunning notice

“My personal residence … is going up 31.2%,” Carper told Fox Baltimore. “I have another rental property that is going up 24%, another that’s going up 35.3%”

The new assessment, which shocked and angered him, will put him back in a similar position he was in when he left Baltimore City for Worcester County. That move was prompted by the area's high cost of living and crime rates.

Higher prices mean that Carper won’t be able to retire. And he’s not alone.

How Maryland’s tax reassessments work

Maryland's Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) is required by law to automatically reassess one-third of the two million taxable residential and commercial properties annually. That means every Maryland property is assessed once every three years.

Carper’s home and all four of his rental homes were among the 767,226 properties reassessed for the upcoming 2025 tax year. According to the SDAT, the average residential property increased in value by 25.6%, while commercial properties rose 17.6% over the three years since the last assessment.

The state is taking steps to help property owners manage the overall increase of 20.6%. SDAT Director Michael Higgs assuaged fears through a release on the government website.

“SDAT is pleased to provide our customers with new and improved reassessment notices this year and, as part of our Tax Credit Awareness Campaign, each reassessment notice includes information about the Departments’ homeowners and Homestead Tax Credits, which save Marylanders more than $260 million in taxes each year,” he wrote.

What to do if you face a property tax hike

Property tax reassessments can come as a shock, especially when taxes increase dramatically. If you recently received a reassessment notice in Maryland and are concerned about the increase, there are several steps you can take to address the problem.

Check the accuracy of your reassessment notice

Start by reviewing the assessment notice. SDAT provides detailed information about how your property was valued and the factors considered in the reassessment. The notice will also include helpful resources, such as potential tax credits you may be eligible for.

Double-check the statement by comparing the features listed in the reassessment notice with your actual property. If you've had features removed or depreciated — for example, if a barn is no longer usable or you had a pool removed — this could lead to inaccuracies. If you spot them, contact SDAT to have them corrected.

Explore additional tax credits

Maryland offers several programs that may help offset property tax increases, including the Homestead Tax Credit, for low-income property owners, and the Renter's Tax Credit Program. Depending on your age, you may also be eligible for the Senior Tax Credit, which offers a credit for primary homes of citizens 65 and over. These credits can dramatically lower your property tax costs, as long as you fill out the application and wait for approval.

Consider filing an appeal

Additionally, you have the right to appeal any assessment decisions. All appeals must be filed within 45 days of the notice date and can done so online. To complete the form, you'll need your notice number and control number.

Most appeals are addressed before June 1 of the filing year, though the volume may delay processing. If your appeal is accepted, you may be scheduled for a hearing. This will allow you to present your case. If the tax appeals process seems overwhelming, consider consulting a property tax attorney who can guide you through the process.

Dealing with property tax increases can be stressful, but some workarounds can ease the burden. By carefully reviewing your assessment, appealing if necessary and exploring all available credits, you can pivot away from excessive taxation.