Understanding the Truth in Millage (TRIM) Notice: What Hillsborough County Homeowners Need to Know

The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office, under Bob Henriquez, has begun mailing the 2021 Truth in Millage (TRIM) notices to property owners across the county. This annual notification contains vital information regarding property taxes, and it’s crucial for homeowners to review it carefully.

What is the TRIM Notice?

The TRIM notice is not a tax bill, but rather an informative document sent every August that includes:

• Assessed Property Value: The estimated value of your property as of January 1, 2021.
• Exemptions: Any exemptions applied to your property, such as homestead or senior exemptions.
• Proposed Taxes: An estimation of ad valorem taxes based on the proposed tax rates from local authorities.
• Budget Hearing Details: Dates, times, and locations for budget hearings held by various taxing authorities.

Why Should Property Owners Review the TRIM Notice?

According to Bob Henriquez, “I encourage all property owners to carefully review their TRIM notice to make sure they are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to by law.” This review is crucial for several reasons:

• Accuracy: Ensure the assessed value is correct.
• Exemptions: Verify that you’re receiving appropriate exemptions to lower your tax burden.
• Tax Planning: Use the proposed tax rates to plan your finances accurately.

For assistance, property owners can reach out to the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office at 272-6100, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

How to Access and Understand Your TRIM Notice

Online Access

Property owners can easily access their TRIM notices through the HCPA website:

• Visit HCPA Property Search
• Locate your property’s ‘parcel result’ page
• Click on the ‘TRIM’ PDF icon to view your Notice of Proposed Taxes.

Get Your Questions Answered

The HCPA provides several resources for property owners:

• Online Help: Use the live chat feature on the HCPA website for immediate assistance.
• In-Person Support: The HCPA has opened three offices for limited walk-in service, following current CDC guidelines. Locations include:
  • County Center in Downtown Tampa (601 E. Kennedy Blvd.)
  • Plant City Office (307 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor)
  • Southshore Regional Service Center in Ruskin (410 30th St. SE)

Understanding Your TRIM Notice

To assist homeowners in navigating their TRIM notices, the HCPA has created a detailed online guide. You can find this information on the HCPA Property Info page.

What If You Disagree With Your Assessment?

If you find that you disagree with the assessed value of your property or believe you should qualify for an exemption:

• Informal Review: Contact the HCPA at 272-6100 for an informal review of your situation.
• Formal Petition: If unsatisfied with the HCPA’s findings, you can file a formal petition with the County’s Value Adjustment Board (VAB). Ensure that petitions are submitted by September 17, and access the petition form online here.

Conclusion

Receiving the TRIM notice is a pivotal moment for homeowners in Hillsborough County. By understanding its contents and taking action, property owners can ensure that they are informed and getting the most out of their property assessments. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the HCPA for any questions or clarifications regarding your notice to maximize the benefits available to you.