If your Philadelphia property tax bill seems too high, start by checking the value the City assigned to your home. You can challenge an assessment if the estimated value is inaccurate, the City has incorrect details about your property, or similar homes are assessed differently.
For 2027 property taxes, the deadline to file a formal appeal is October 5, 2026. You can file directly with the Board of Revision of Taxes; you do not have to complete a First Level Review first.
How Are Philadelphia Property Taxes Calculated?
Philadelphia calculates real estate tax by multiplying your taxable assessed value by the tax rate. The rate for 2026 and 2027 is 1.3998%. The Office of Property Assessment (OPA) determines property values using market data and details about each property.
For example, if your taxable assessed value is $250,000:
$250,000 × 1.3998% = $3,499.50 in annual property taxes
Your taxable value may be lower than your home’s assessed market value if you receive an exemption. You can look up your property’s value at Philadelphia Property Search.
How Are Property Taxes Paid in Philadelphia?
If your mortgage payment includes an escrow account, your lender generally collects money for property taxes and pays the bill. Check your mortgage statement to confirm. If your lender does not pay the tax, you are responsible for paying the City.
Philadelphia property taxes are due March 31 each year. You can check your balance and pay through the Philadelphia Tax Center. Late payments can lead to added charges, so keep paying any bill that comes due while your appeal is being reviewed.
What Is the Basic Process for a Property Tax Appeal?
To appeal your Philadelphia property assessment, you’ll need to show why the City’s value may be incorrect. Follow these steps:
1. Review your assessment
Search for your home at property.phila.gov. Check the assessed value and details such as square footage and property condition.
2. Gather evidence
Collect information that supports the value you believe is more accurate. This could include recent sales of similar homes, a recent appraisal, photos of damage, or proof that the City has incorrect property details.
3. Choose an appeal option
You can request an informal First Level Review (FLR) from the Office of Property Assessment. You can also file a formal appeal with the Board of Revision of Taxes (BRT). You do not need to complete an FLR before filing with the BRT.
4. Submit your form by the deadline
For a formal appeal of your 2027 assessment, the BRT must receive your appeal by Monday, October 5, 2026. Check the City’s current instructions for the FLR deadline.
5. Get ready for a hearing, if needed
If you file with the BRT, you may attend your hearing in person or remotely. Your hearing notice will explain when to attend and what to submit.
*A higher assessment alone does not prove that it is incorrect. Recent sales of truly comparable homes and documented errors in your property record will make your case clearer.
Can I Use an Online Platform to File a Property Tax Appeal?
You can email a completed PDF appeal form to the BRT at ap***********@***la.gov. The City also accepts formal appeals by mail or in person. Its current instructions do not list the Philadelphia Tax Center as a place to file a BRT assessment appeal. You can use the Tax Center to pay property taxes and apply for certain tax relief programs.
A private online appeal service may offer help preparing a case, but check its fees and terms before signing up. You can file directly with the City yourself.
Could a Tax Relief Program Lower Your Bill?
An appeal challenges your property’s value. A tax relief program can lower or help manage your bill even when the assessment is accurate.
Philadelphia’s Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of an eligible primary residence by $100,000, saving most homeowners about $1,399 a year at the current tax rate. The City also offers programs for some longtime homeowners, seniors, and lower-income homeowners, plus payment options for those who need help with a bill. Check eligibility and apply through the City’s real estate tax relief information.
If you are buying a home, a Philadelphia realtor can help you compare recent sales and understand how a property’s current tax bill fits into your budget. At Venture Philly Group, our agents can help you review local sales and explore Philadelphia, PA homes for sale. For questions about filing an appeal or qualifying for relief, use the City’s instructions or speak with a qualified tax professional.