Sir, – Well done to John Burnett (March 27th) for getting to speak to a Revenue official on the telephone!
The valuation date for the local property tax is May 1st, 2013. The valuation on this date will be used for calculating the tax up to and including the year 2016. Any fluctuations, up or down, in the value of the property after this date is irrelevant (until 2017). A subsequent sale might not necessarily reflect the value on the valuation date. A lower price accepted “as a result of needing a quick sale” does not necessarily reflect open market value.
The Finance (Local Property Tax) Act, 2012 does provide for a refund of tax overpaid. If you make an error or mistake in your return you can apply for a refund, provided certain conditions are met. – Yours, etc,
STUART MEHARG,
Ballyconnell, Co Cavan.