Edmonton residents are being advised to keep an eye on their postal mail this week, as the city has begun distributing its annual property assessment notices for the 2026 tax year. These documents detail the city's valuation of residential and non-residential properties, a key figure used to calculate municipal property taxes.
Understanding Your Assessment Notice
The assessment notice provides the city's estimate of your property's market value as of July 1, 2025, and its condition on December 31, 2025. This valuation forms the basis for your share of the municipal property tax bill for the coming year. It is crucial for homeowners to review this notice carefully for accuracy.
If you believe the assessed value does not reflect your property's true market value or contains errors, you have the right to file a complaint. The City of Edmonton has established a formal review process for property owners who wish to dispute their assessment.
Key Dates and Next Steps for Homeowners
The mailing of these notices marks the start of the annual property tax cycle. Homeowners have a limited window to act if they disagree with the city's valuation. The deadline to file a formal complaint regarding the 2026 assessment is typically 60 days from the date printed on the notice.
It is important to distinguish between your property assessment and your final tax bill. The assessment determines your property's value, while the tax bill is calculated by applying the municipal and education tax rates—which are set later in the spring—to that assessed value. An increase in your property's assessed value does not automatically mean an equivalent increase in your taxes, as it depends on the average change across the city and the final tax rate set by city council.
How Assessments Impact the Community
Property assessments are a foundational component of municipal funding in Edmonton. The revenue generated from property taxes is essential for financing city services that residents rely on daily. These include public transit, road maintenance, parks and recreation, police and fire services, and library systems.
The city encourages all property owners to take the time to understand their notice. Resources are available on the City of Edmonton's official website to help explain the assessment process, how to read your notice, and the steps required to file a complaint if necessary. Proactive review ensures the system remains fair and equitable for all taxpayers in the community.
