What is an Equalization Study?

An Equalization Study is designed to determine how closely assessed values within a classification are related to True Cash Value.  It is a forward-looking comparison to the current year’s assessed value.  In the State of Michigan, as mandated by the constitution, property is to be assessed at 50% of True Cash Value.  The results of an Equalization Study may determine that, for example, Industrial property in Dexter City is being assessed at only 48.71% of True Cash Value going into the next assessment cycle.  Whether the ratio falls above or below 50% will determine the direction in which assessments in that local classification need to move as compared to the local assessor’s independent analysis.

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1. Why did someone from the Equalization Department visit my property?
2. Is Equalization the same as my Assessor?
3. Will Equalization raise my taxes?
4. What is an Equalization Study?
5. Why was my property chosen for the current Equalization Study?
6. Can I refuse to participate in an Equalization Study?
7. How is an Equalization Study conducted?
8. What is County Equalization and the Equalization Report?
9. Where do I submit my Property Transfer Affidavit, PA 260 affidavit, or homestead exemption affidavit?
10. Aside from Equalization, how does assessing work in the State of Michigan generally?
11. What is the Apportionment Report?
12. Why is the Property Description Division attached to the Equalization Department?
13. How do I split or combine my property?