Property tax is a tax levied or assessed on the owner of property—often real property (real estate)—that is based on the property’s appraised value. Local governments often impose property taxes to finance their school districts, police departments, fire departments, and municipal projects such as construction and maintenance of streets and roads.

Most local government authorities (often counties) allow citizens to dispute or challenge the appraised value of their property through an administrative process initiated with the tax assessor or appraisal district.

In New Jersey, property tax is assessed on real property, such as land and buildings, by local government entities, primarily municipalities. The tax is based on the property's assessed value, which is supposed to reflect the market value. Property taxes in New Jersey fund various local services and infrastructure, including schools, police and fire departments, and road maintenance. Property owners in New Jersey have the right to appeal their property's assessment if they believe it is inaccurate or excessive. This appeal must be filed with the County Board of Taxation on or before April 1 of the tax year. If the property is located in a municipality undergoing a revaluation or reassessment, the deadline may be extended to May 1. The appeal process involves a hearing where the property owner can present evidence to support their claim for a reduced assessment. If dissatisfied with the outcome at the county level, property owners may further appeal to the Tax Court of New Jersey.