Appealing a property tax assessment is not as difficult as some would have you believe.

Property tax appeals are on the increase, and for very good reason. Property taxes drop along with property assessment values. Most counties regularly update their assessed values. However, many county assessors are behind in their efforts to keep up with the volatile market. It's estimated that about 60 percent of homes are now over-assessed, according to the National Taxpayers Union. That means their owners are paying too much for property taxes.

Fortunately, owners can appeal the assessment and tax amount, and they often do, successfully. About 40 percent of appeals nationally are successful. The number of appeals has skyrocketed in recent months. That flurry of activity has motivated many business firms to launch a special profit-center service department. "Let us help you apply for an appeal of your property assessment" they advertise.

The firms often provide online counseling and forms to start the appeal process. In some cases, they structure their advertising to appear like an official government entity, using similar colors, type fonts and design features. Of course, a substantial fee is charged for their services. It's similar to the plethora of firms offering to help mortgage borrowers obtain a modification of their loan.

Most county assessor offices will provide assessment appeal-related information without charge. Many have clearly defined printed instructions that can be obtained without charge. Free forms are also available. All it takes is a phone call or visit to your county assessor's office, or a visit to your assessor's Website.