Malta Homeowners Can Fight Assessments Online, Early | The Locally Times
A new electronic review process lets Malta property owners submit evidence now to challenge their 2026 valuations, potentially slashing tax bills months before formal grievances open May 1.
Malta homeowners, get ready for your 2026 property assessment notices, scheduled to arrive by this Sunday, March 30. But don't just accept a higher valuation — a new, electronic informal review process offers an early chance to challenge your assessment and potentially lower your future tax bill, all before the formal grievance period even begins. ## Early Chance to Challenge Malta Assessments The Town of Malta has launched an informal review process for its 2026 Preliminary Change of Assessment Notices. These notices, detailing updated property valuations, are set to be mailed to all property owners by March 30. The mailing will include comprehensive instructions for property owners wishing to pursue an informal review. Residents who disagree with their new assessment can submit an informal review application electronically through the town's designated assessment website, https://townofmalta.prosgar.com. This informal review is separate from the formal grievance process, which is scheduled to begin on May 1, 2026, and conclude on May 26, 2026. This early option allows residents to engage with the assessment process ahead of the formal timeline. Property owners can submit various forms of supporting documentation to bolster their claim, including interior photographs of the property, professional appraisals, data on comparable property sales in the area, and assessments of similar neighboring properties. The town assessor's office will review each submitted case and issue a decision. If satisfied with the outcome, no further action is necessary. However, if the informal review decision does not meet expectations, property owners retain the option to proceed with the more formal grievance procedures. ## Understanding Formal Grievances and Deadlines The informal review serves as a crucial initial opportunity to address assessments, potentially resolving issues before they escalate to the formal stage. Following the informal review period, the formal grievance process will open, running from May 1st through May 26th, 2026. This formal process requires property owners to submit an RP-524 Complaint on Assessment form. Unlike the informal review, formal grievances are not accepted electronically; submissions must adhere to the requirements outlined by the Board of Assessment Review. For property owners who either do not challenge their assessment, or who are satisfied with the outcome of either the informal or formal review, the final assessment value will become effective on July 1, 2026. ## Key Questions **How do I submit an informal review?** Property owners can submit an informal review application electronically via https://townofmalta.prosgar.com after receiving their preliminary change of assessment notice. **What is the difference between informal and formal review?** The informal review is an electronic process allowing submission of supporting documents before May 1, while the formal grievance process (May 1-26) requires a specific form (RP-524) and is not accepted electronically. **When will my new assessment become final?** The final assessment value will become effective on July 1, 2026, if no action is taken or if the outcome of the informal review is satisfactory.