From ABC7 New York · · 1m 10s
New York City property owners demand tax refund
New York City property owners claim overcharged taxes: 'We want a refund'.
In brief
New York City property owners claim overcharged taxes: 'We want a refund'. New York City property owners say they were overcharged taxes due to clerical errors and are seeking refunds from the Department of Finance. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Property owners report overcharged taxes
Some New Yorkers say they've been overpaying property taxes and can't get refunds from the city.
“We overpaid and it's really just a refund that's due, it's very simple”
Rudolph's building overvalued by 2,000 sq ft
Ron Rudolph says his building has 2,000 square feet less than recorded and owes $250 to $300,000 in refunds.
“It's about 35,000 per year and with interest we think it's between $250 and $300,000 that we're owed from the Department of Finance”
City denies refund for past taxes
Rudolph submitted a clerical error report but was denied refunds for past taxes despite city correcting square footage.
“No one has really responded to us”
Tax system described as broken
Councilmember Linda Lee says the property tax system is broken and needs an overhaul.
“The property tax system in and of itself is very broken”
Department of Finance explains valuation process
The Department of Finance states square footage isn't the sole factor in property valuation and allows appeals to the Tax Commission.
“The NYC Administrative Code provides for the administrative review performed by DOF of clerical errors”
Refund process delayed for years
Buildings can receive a three to six year refund if they file within the correct timeframe but Rudolph says no one has responded.
“It's really difficult”
The bottom line
New York City property owners say they were overcharged taxes due to clerical errors and are seeking refunds from the Department of Finance.
