Applying Models for Vertical Inequity in the Property Tax to a Non-Market Value State

The objective is to contribute to the discussion on property tax inequity by employing the methodologies developed to test for vertical inequity in a tax system that currently does not rely on some form of market value in the assessment process. There is strong evidence that the property tax and the ‘‘True Tax Value’’ assessment procedure employed in Indiana contains progressive vertical inequities rather than regressive inequities as is typically perceived. This is unique, as previous findings tend to support the notion that the property tax is regressive. It provides potentially pertinent information in light of the ongoing discussion surrounding the restructuring of Indiana’s property tax assessment and property tax debates elsewhere.