Tax Department

• Property owners who believe their assessment does not reflect fair market value can file an appeal by April 1 each year.
• Appeal forms are typically available from the Bergen County Board of Taxation after February 1, once you receive your assessment notice.
• For added assessments, you can file an appeal by December 1 at the County Board of Taxation.

• Certain improvements (e.g., additions, decks, finished basements, kitchen/bath renovations) can increase your property’s value, which may result in an added assessment.
• Some projects (fences, smaller sheds under 10×10, paint, replacement windows) typically do not lead to an added assessment.
• After you get a building permit, the Assessor and construction official will inspect the completed work.
• An added assessment tax bill is sent in October, with payments due November 1, February 1, and May 1.

• An “Omitted/Added” assessment may be issued the following year for improvements not previously assessed.
• Failing to schedule a final inspection does not delay billing.
• You can appeal an added assessment by filing before December 1 with the Bergen County Board of Taxation.

• Request a Municipal Tax Search ($10 fee) from the Tax Collector’s Office to check for unpaid taxes, open permits, or pending added/omitted assessments.
• Ensure all building permits and final inspections are completed before closing.
• If any permits or a Certificate of Occupancy are missing, or if an added/omitted assessment is pending, address these through your attorney.
• Be aware of pending tax appeals or litigation, especially for commercial properties.

• SAVER Rebate: For homeowners using the property as their principal residence. No age or income requirements. Apply via phone (1-877-NJTAX82) by June 11.
• Homestead Rebate: For households under certain income thresholds ($100,000 if 65+ or disabled; $40,000 for others). Claimed through NJ Income Tax Returns (Form HR-1040).
• Property Tax Reimbursement (“Senior Freeze”): For eligible seniors or disabled residents meeting specific residency and income guidelines. Call 1-800-882-6597 for details.
• Senior/Disabled Tax Deduction: $250 annual deduction for those 65+ or disabled with income under $10,000 (excluding Social Security). Apply through the Bergenfield Tax Assessor’s Office.
• Veterans Deduction: $250 annual property tax deduction for qualifying veterans or surviving spouses.
• 100% Disabled Veteran Exemption: For permanently disabled veterans or their surviving spouses, providing a full tax exemption on the home.

• Acceptable forms include check, money order, cash, or debit/credit card.
• Use the mail slot at the main Tax Office by 4:30 p.m. (Mon-Fri) for same-day posting. After 4:30 p.m., payment is credited the following business day.
• Online payments are available at www.bergenfield.com (2.65% fee for credit/debit).

• Quarterly payments are due August 1, November 1, February 1, and May 1.
• A 10-day grace period applies; if the 10th falls on a weekend or holiday, it extends to the next business day. Postmarks are not accepted—payment must be received by the deadline.

• Interest accrues at 8% on the first $1,500 and 18% on amounts above $1,500, retroactive to the 1st of the due month.
• A $20 fee applies for returned checks.

• Your cancelled check serves as your receipt.
• If you’d like a printed receipt, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your payment.

You are still responsible for timely payment. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the taxpayer’s obligation.

• Any unpaid municipal liens may be sold at a tax sale on the 11th day of the 11th month.
• Property owners should ensure taxes and municipal charges are fully paid to avoid a tax sale.

• Appeals must be filed with the Bergen County Board of Taxation by April 1 each year.
• Forms are available at One Bergen County Plaza in Hackensack or via www.co.bergen.nj.us.
• You can also call (201) 336-6300 for more information.