If you're using a third-party service like TaxAppeal USA to file your Alabama property tax appeal, the county Board of Equalization requires a signed agent authorization before accepting the appeal. Alabama does not have a statewide standard form for this authorization — each county may have its own requirements. Most counties accept a professional authorization letter that clearly identifies the property owner, the authorized agent, the property address, and the owner's signature. Mobile County is the exception — it maintains its own specific authorization form that must be used.
What Agent Authorization Covers
The agent authorization grants TaxAppeal USA the legal authority to file a formal protest with your county Board of Equalization on your behalf. Without it, the BOE will not accept the appeal from a third party. The authorization must identify you as the property owner, identify TaxAppeal USA as the authorized agent, specify the property address, and include your signature and date.
- ✓Who needs it: Any property owner using a third-party agent (including TaxAppeal)
- ✓What it authorizes: Filing and representation at the BOE hearing level
- ✓What it doesn't cover: Circuit Court appeals (a separate process requiring an attorney)
- ✓Form format: Professional letter (most counties) or county-specific form (Mobile County)
How TaxAppeal Handles Authorization
TaxAppeal USA generates the agent authorization electronically at checkout. At the end of the checkout form, you acknowledge and authorize TaxAppeal to act as your agent. This authorization — with your name, property address, and timestamped electronic consent — is printed as page 2 of your certified mail letter to the county BOE. For Mobile County specifically, TaxAppeal will contact you after checkout to coordinate Mobile County's county-specific form before filing.
Mobile County Exception
Mobile County requires its own specific agent authorization form — a general professional authorization letter is not accepted. If you are filing for a Mobile County property, TaxAppeal will reach out after checkout to coordinate the Mobile County-specific form with you before mailing your protest.
- ✓Mobile County: county-specific form required
- ✓All other Alabama counties: professional authorization letter accepted
- ✓TaxAppeal coordinates Mobile County form after checkout
- ✓No extra cost for Mobile County coordination
Frequently Asked Questions
Is agent authorization required for Alabama property tax appeals? ▾
Yes. Alabama counties require signed agent authorization for any third-party filer. TaxAppeal includes this electronically at checkout for all Alabama orders.
What is the Mobile County authorization exception? ▾
Mobile County requires its own specific authorization form rather than a general letter. TaxAppeal coordinates the Mobile County-specific form with you after checkout at no extra cost.
Does TaxAppeal's authorization cover the BOE hearing? ▾
Yes. The authorization covers filing and representation at the BOE level. Circuit Court appeals are a separate process requiring an attorney.
What if my county has its own specific authorization form? ▾
Contact TaxAppeal at disputes@taxappealusa.com after checkout. We'll coordinate county-specific requirements before filing.
Is agent authorization required every year? ▾
Yes. A new authorization is generated for each annual appeal.