WEST CALDWELL, NJ — Get a text message about "delinquent" taxes in West Caldwell? It's a fake, local authorities say.
The township recently issued an advisory for local residents about a potential scam that's been reported in West Caldwell:
"The township has been made aware that residents are receiving text messages claiming that their taxes are delinquent. Please be advised that the township will never send text messages regarding delinquent tax or water payments. Residents are urged not to click on any links or provide personal or financial information in response to these texts."
West Caldwell residents who have questions about their tax or water accounts can contact the township at 973-226-2300 for more information.
The phony text messages are being sent as the town undergoes its first property revaluation in nearly 16 years.
State and county agencies have determined that West Caldwell properties aren't currently assessed at market value. The average property is assessed at 65.84 percent of market value for 2026.
During a revaluation, all properties in a city or town are reassessed to find out their current "full and fair value." The goal? To make sure each home or business owner is paying their fair share toward the town's overall tax burden.
Although almost all property values rise during a revaluation, it doesn't necessarily mean that all property taxes will increase, experts explain: some may rise and others may fall.
>> RELATED: West Caldwell Is Doing Its First Tax Revaluation In 16 Years: What Homeowners Should Know
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