Property tax chaos in Offenbach: Notices cause excitement!

Property tax chaos in Offenbach: Notices cause excitement!

In the course of the property tax reform, which came into force on January 1, 2025, numerous owners in Offenbach face high financial challenges. One example is Massimiliano A., who received a property tax notice of EUR 10,774.80 for his 56.5 square meter apartment. This corresponds to the owner of over 190 euros per square meter. The city of Offenbach started sending the new property tax notices at the beginning of April, which led to a wave of inquiries. Around 270 inquiries arrived at the city at the weekend before Easter, which reflects the concerns of the citizens.

The new notices have arisen as part of a reform that the federal government and the federal states decided together. This reform requires a re -evaluation of the property, which must be completed by the end of 2024. The regulations have become necessary after the 2018 Federal Constitutional Court determined an unequal treatment. A central goal of the reform is the financing of public tasks generated by income from property tax, for example for schools and infrastructure.

Significant differences in tax amounts

As can be seen from the new calculations, about 61 percent of the owners could benefit from a reduction in property tax. In contrast, around 39 percent have to expect significant increases. These differences are particularly pronounced in older properties that are taxed more compared to newer buildings that could benefit from the reform. The rate for Offenbach is 1230 points.

With Massimiliano A. there were complications: Although he was informed of a tax measurement amount of 22 euros by the Offenbach tax office, the decision points to a value of 876 euros. However, the city of Offenbach is not responsible for the calculation; This lies with the tax office. Requirements for the amount of the property tax measurement amount can be clarified from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the tax office.

appeal and objections

Massimiliano A. has already appealed against the decision, which reflects the general trend. By the end of March 2025, Hessen had only obtained 10 percent of the notices. There are inquiries and uncertainties against the background of the new regulations that bring the changeover to the reformed property tax. Applications for changes are possible and the feedback to the owners can be delayed until clarification.

The property tax is usually debited quarterly, and the payment of the previous regulations can be passed on to tenants. This underlines the importance of property tax for public financing, which rinses over 15 billion euros in the cities and municipalities of over 15 billion euros annually, as stated by the Federal Ministry of Finance. These income is crucial for the financing of public institutions that are essential for the quality of life in the communities.

The reform should also ensure that a fair and evenly collecting the property tax will continue in the future. The next main assessment of the property tax values ​​is also planned for January 1, 2029.