Sparks Property Tax Rates 2026: Quick Calculator & Deadlines

Sparks Property Tax rates for 2026 are posted by the Washoe County Assessor’s Office, and the online portal lets homeowners see their assessment value instantly. Use the Sparks property tax calculator online to compare your bill with the Sparks Nevada property tax rates chart. The Sparks property tax payment deadline falls on October 1, and you can meet it with Sparks property tax bill online payment or a payment plan from the Sparks city tax collector. Seniors and veterans should check Sparks property tax exemptions for seniors and Sparks property tax exemptions for veterans to reduce their liability.

Sparks Property Tax assessment appeals are handled by the Sparks property tax assessor office, and the Sparks property tax appeal process includes a clear steps guide on the county website. If you believe your valuation is high, file a Sparks property tax assessment appeal before the deadline posted on the Sparks property tax due date 2026. Late payments trigger Sparks property tax delinquency penalties, but eligible owners can request Sparks property tax refunds procedure after a successful appeal. Historical data on Sparks property tax history trends shows a modest levy increase for 2026, helpful when planning future budgets.

Search Sparks City Property Tax

Sparks Property Tax records sit in the Washoe County system, even though Sparks itself is a city in Nevada. The official portal at https://www.washoecounty.gov/assessor/online_data/index.php gives direct access to assessment data, parcel maps, and ownership history for every property inside city limits.

Homeowners and investors use this portal to pull assessed values, view tax year breakdowns, and confirm exemption status. It replaces the older paper-based request system and runs through a secure browser session that respects Nevada public records law.

Follow these steps to pull current data on any Sparks parcel:

• Open the official portal link listed above in any modern browser.
• Select the “Parcel Number” search option if you know the APN from a deed or prior bill.
• Enter the property address in the address search bar if the parcel number is not available.
• Review the assessed value, tax district code, and exemption flags that appear on the result page.
• Download the printable tax summary PDF for your records or lender packet.

New users often find the map view faster than text search because Sparks parcels show up with boundary overlays and adjacent ownership markers.

Washoe County Assessor Office for Sparks

The Washoe County Assessor’s Office handles Sparks Property Tax valuation under Nevada state law. The office calculates full cash value, applies land improvements, and assigns tax district codes that drive the local rate.

Property owners in Sparks can contact the assessor directly at (775) 328-2277 or by email at exemptions@washoecounty.gov. The physical office sits at 1001 E. 9th Street, Reno, NV 89512, and serves all Washoe County residents including Sparks city residents.

The assessor handles these Sparks-specific duties:

• Sets assessed value for residential, commercial, and industrial parcels inside Sparks city limits.
• Processes exemption applications for seniors, veterans, and disabled homeowners.
• Maintains parcel maps and ownership records for tax billing.
• Issues valuation notices each year before the appeal window opens.

Sparks Property Tax Rates by District

Tax rates inside Sparks vary by overlapping districts. A Sparks homeowner might pay into the city, county, school, and special improvement district at the same time. Each district sets its own rate per $100 of assessed value.

The combined rate depends on where the property sits, not just the city name. The table below shows common district components for Sparks parcels.

Rates reset each fiscal year after public hearings. The actual rate for a given address appears on the official assessment notice mailed by the Washoe County Treasurer.

Sparks Property Tax Payment Deadline

The Sparks Property Tax payment deadline falls on the first Monday in August and the first Monday in October for each installment under Nevada law. The Washoe County Treasurer mails bills at least 30 days before the first installment due date.

Missing either installment triggers penalties and interest. The penalty structure is fixed by Nevada Revised Statute and applies to all parcels, including those inside Sparks city limits.

Key deadline points for Sparks owners:

• First installment due: first Monday in August.
• Second installment due: first Monday in October.
• Delinquent date: day after each installment due date.
• Penalty accrual: begins immediately after the delinquent date.

Sparks Property Tax Delinquency Penalties

Nevada law sets a 10% penalty on delinquent installments. Interest accrues at 1% per month or fraction of a month after the due date. The penalty applies whether the owner is a resident or a non-resident.

A property that stays unpaid for three years faces a potential tax lien sale. The Washoe County Treasurer publishes a delinquent list each spring before any lien action begins.

The table below shows the penalty structure applied to Sparks parcels.

Owners who anticipate a late payment should contact the treasurer before the due date to explore payment plan options.

Sparks Property Tax Calculator Online

The Sparks Property Tax calculator online uses the assessed value and the combined district rate to estimate annual liability. The Washoe County Assessor portal includes a built-in estimator that pulls current data.

To get an accurate figure, the calculator needs the parcel number or full street address. The result shows the tax year, exemptions applied, and a breakdown by district.

Steps to use the official calculator:

• Visit the official portal at https://www.washoecounty.gov/assessor/online_data/index.php.
• Click the “Tax Estimator” link on the parcel result page.
• Enter the assessed value or pull it from the saved parcel record.
• Review the rate breakdown by district for the specific parcel.
• Apply any exemption value to see the reduced estimate.

The calculator excludes fees for water, sewer, and solid waste billed separately by the City of Sparks.

Sparks Property Tax Bill Online Payment

The Sparks Property Tax bill online payment option runs through the Washoe County Treasurer system. Sparks city residents can pay with a checking account, savings account, or major credit card through the secure portal.

Online payments post on the same business day if submitted before the cutoff time. The system emails a confirmation receipt that serves as proof of payment for income tax or escrow purposes.

Payment options available to Sparks owners:

• Electronic check (ACH) with no processing fee.
• Credit or debit card with a percentage-based processor fee.
• Phone payment through the treasurer automated line.
• Mail payment with check or money order to the treasurer PO box.
• In-person payment at the treasurer office in Reno.

Sparks Property Tax Payment Plans

Sparks Property Tax payment plans help owners who cannot pay the full installment on time. The Washoe County Treasurer reviews hardship requests on a case-by-case basis and may approve a short-term installment agreement.

Approved plans require a signed agreement, automatic payments, and a down payment equal to one installment. Interest continues to accrue on the unpaid balance at the Nevada statutory rate.

Common reasons Sparks owners request a payment plan:

• Recent job loss or income reduction.
• Medical emergency with high out-of-pocket costs.
• Property damage from a covered event.
• Pending insurance reimbursement for property loss.

The treasurer requires supporting documentation for each hardship request. Approval depends on the owner’s prior payment history and the total amount owed.

Sparks Property Tax Exemptions for Seniors

Sparks Property Tax exemptions for seniors reduce the assessed value of a primary residence for owners age 65 or older. The exemption is fixed by Nevada law and applies to all parcels in Washoe County including Sparks.

The standard senior exemption removes a set dollar amount from the assessed value before tax calculation. Surviving spouses of qualifying seniors keep the exemption for as long as they own and live in the home.

Eligibility requirements for the Sparks senior exemption:

• Owner age 65 or older at the time of application.
• Property used as primary residence.
• No claim of the exemption on another property.
• Application filed with the assessor by the posted deadline.

Application forms are available from the Washoe County Assessor’s Office or downloaded from the official portal. The assessor reviews each request and notifies the owner by mail.

Sparks Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans

Sparks Property Tax exemptions for veterans apply to service-connected disabled veterans and, in some cases, to their surviving spouses. The exemption amount depends on the disability rating assigned by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating may receive a full exemption from property tax on their primary residence. Lower disability ratings receive a partial exemption based on the rating percentage.

Documentation required for the Sparks veteran exemption:

• VA disability rating letter showing service connection.
• DD-214 or other proof of military service.
• Property deed showing veteran ownership.
• Proof of Sparks residency for the veteran or surviving spouse.

Applications go to the Washoe County Assessor at exemptions@washoecounty.gov or by mail to 1001 E. 9th Street, Reno, NV 89512.

Sparks Property Tax Appeal Process

The Sparks Property Tax appeal process lets owners challenge the assessed value set by the Washoe County Assessor. The first step is a formal appeal to the assessor, followed by a hearing before the Nevada Tax Commission if needed.

Appeals must show that the assessed value exceeds the full cash value as of the lien date. Comparable sales, income data, or construction cost errors all serve as valid grounds for a value reduction.

Step-by-step appeal process for Sparks parcels:

• File a written appeal with the Washoe County Assessor within the appeal window posted on the valuation notice.
• Submit supporting evidence such as comparable sales or an independent appraisal.
• Attend the assessor review hearing scheduled by the appeals division.
• Receive a written decision from the assessor.
• File a petition with the Nevada Tax Commission if the assessor denies the appeal.

The Tax Commission hears cases in Carson City, but Sparks owners can participate by phone or video conference in many cases.

Sparks Property Tax Assessment Appeal Deadlines

The Sparks Property Tax assessment appeal window opens when the assessor mails valuation notices and closes 30 days after the postmark date. The exact deadline appears on the front of the notice sent to each owner.

Missing the appeal deadline forfeits the right to challenge the assessed value for that tax year. Owners who find errors after the deadline must wait until the next valuation cycle to file.

Critical deadline points for Sparks owners:

• Valuation notice mailed by: January 1 of each tax year.
• Appeal window opens: postmark date on the notice.
• Appeal window closes: 30 days after postmark date.
• Tribunal filing deadline: posted by the Nevada Tax Commission.

Owners should mark the deadline on a calendar when the valuation notice arrives and gather evidence before the window closes.

Sparks Property Tax Refunds Procedure

The Sparks Property Tax refunds procedure applies when an owner pays more than the correct amount or wins an appeal that reduces the assessed value. The Washoe County Treasurer processes refunds after the assessor or Tax Commission issues a final decision.

Refunds issue by check or electronic deposit based on the owner’s payment method. Credit card refunds return to the original card, while check payments refund by check from the treasurer’s office.

Required steps for a Sparks refund request:

• Wait for the final decision from the assessor or Nevada Tax Commission.
• Confirm the adjusted tax amount on the treasurer portal.
• Submit a written refund request if the amount paid exceeds the corrected bill.
• Allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing by the treasurer office.

Sparks Property Tax History Trends

The Sparks Property Tax history trends show steady increases in assessed value over the past decade, driven by population growth and new construction. Median assessed values inside Sparks city limits rose faster than the national average between 2020 and 2026.

Rates have stayed relatively stable while values climbed. The combined district rate per $100 of assessed value changed less than 3% in any single year over the past five fiscal years.

Key trend points for Sparks parcels:

• Median assessed value increase: roughly 6% per year since 2020.
• Combined district rate change: under 3% per year.
• New construction permits: above 1,000 units per year inside Sparks city limits.
• Levy increase projected for fiscal year 2026: modest, within the Nevada statutory cap.

Owners planning future budgets should focus on value growth rather than rate changes because value drives most year-over-year bill increases.

Nevada Property Tax Laws Affecting Sparks

Nevada property tax laws create the framework that Washoe County and the City of Sparks follow. The state caps property tax growth at 3% per year for owner-occupied residences and at 8% per year for other properties.

The cap does not apply to new construction, change in ownership, or substantial completion of a project. Sparks owners see cap adjustments when the parcel meets one of these triggers.

Key Nevada statutes that affect Sparks parcels:

• NRS 361.471: limits the tax bill increase for owner-occupied homes.
• NRS 361.473: addresses partial exemptions for disabled veterans.
• NRS 361.075: defines the full cash value standard for all parcels.
• NRS 361.605: covers the installment payment structure used by all counties.

State law also requires public hearings for any district rate increase above the statutory cap. Sparks residents can attend these hearings and submit public comment.

Washoe County Recorder for Sparks Deeds

The Washoe County Recorder’s Office maintains deed records for Sparks Property Tax purposes. Property transfers, liens, and encumbrances all flow through the recorder before they appear on the tax roll.

Recording a deed transfers the tax obligation to the new owner at the start of the next fiscal year. The recorder notifies the assessor, who updates the ownership record for tax billing.

Sparks property owners can contact the recorder at (775) 328-3660 or by email at record@washoecounty.gov. The office sits at 1001 E. 9th Street, Bldg A, Suite 140, Reno, NV 89512.

Recorder services for Sparks parcels include:

• Deed recording for sale, gift, or inheritance transfers.
• Lien and release recording for mortgages and judgments.
• Public access to historical deed records through the recorder portal.
• Certified copies of recorded documents for legal or tax purposes.

Sparks Property Tax Records Search

The Sparks Property Tax records search pulls from both the assessor and recorder databases. The assessor holds valuation and exemption data, while the recorder holds ownership and lien history.

Public search portals run separately for each office. Users can move between the two to build a complete picture of any parcel inside Sparks city limits.

Records available through public search:

• Assessed value history by tax year.
• Exemption status and exemption type.
• Tax payment history for the current owner.
• Deed transfer history from the recorder database.
• Parcel map with boundary lines and adjacent owners.

Search portals include the assessor link at https://www.washoecounty.gov/assessor/online_data/index.php and the recorder link at https://recorder.washoecounty.gov/recorder/web/.

Sparks City Tax Collector Contact

The Sparks city tax collector contact point for property tax bills is the Washoe County Treasurer. Sparks does not collect property tax directly, so all billing and payment questions route through the county.

The treasurer handles billing, payment posting, delinquency notices, and refund processing for Sparks parcels. Phone support runs during standard business hours at the published county number.

Common reasons to call the treasurer about Sparks Property Tax:

• Confirm the amount due for the next installment.
• Set up an online payment profile for the parcel.
• Request a payoff statement for a sale or refinance.
• Ask about a missed payment and available cure options.

Sparks Property Tax Levy Increase

The Sparks Property Tax levy increase for fiscal year 2026 falls within the Nevada statutory cap. The combined district rate saw a small adjustment, but the levy total rose because assessed values climbed across Sparks city limits.

Public hearings at the Washoe County Commission and Sparks City Council determined the final rate change. Both bodies post hearing minutes online so residents can review the vote breakdown.

Levy components reviewed each year include:

• Washoe County general fund request.
• City of Sparks operating budget.
• Washoe County School District override request.
• Special district infrastructure projects.

Property owners who want to influence the next levy increase can submit public comment during the budget hearing cycle each spring.

Common Sparks Property Tax Scenarios

Different property types inside Sparks face different tax treatment. The table below shows how common scenarios affect the annual bill.

Sparks Property Tax Bill Components

A Sparks Property Tax bill breaks the total liability into separate line items by district. Reading the bill line by line helps owners confirm exemptions and detect errors before the appeal window closes.

Standard line items on a Sparks tax bill include:

• Washoe County General Fund contribution.
• City of Sparks municipal services.
• Washoe County School District operating and debt service.
• Sparks Redevelopment Area special levy (if applicable).
• Special Improvement District assessment (if applicable).

Each line item shows the rate per $100 of assessed value and the dollar amount due. The sum of all line items equals the total installment amount.

Sparks Property Tax Payment Confirmation

After each payment, the treasurer system issues a confirmation record. Sparks owners should keep these records for at least three years to support tax deduction claims or escrow reconciliation.

Confirmation records include:

• Payment date and posted amount.
• Parcel number tied to the payment.
• Installment period covered by the payment.
• Confirmation number for customer service reference.

The treasurer portal stores the full payment history for each parcel. Owners can log in at any time to download a copy for lender or tax preparation use.

Sparks Property Tax Records Access for Researchers

Researchers and title companies need bulk access to Sparks Property Tax records for due diligence. The Washoe County offices offer bulk data subscriptions and on-site research terminals for high-volume users.

Access methods available to researchers:

• Bulk data download through the assessor data portal.
• Recorder document images through the subscription service.
• On-site research terminal at the Reno office.
• Custom data requests submitted to the assessor or recorder offices.

Each office sets its own fee schedule for bulk data and certified copies. Contact details for research requests appear in the final section of this page.

Sparks Property Tax Calendar

A Sparks Property Tax calendar helps owners track every deadline. The list below shows the standard events for each tax year, though specific dates shift based on the calendar each year.

• January 1: lien date and valuation reference date.
• Mid-January: valuation notices mailed by the assessor.
• Mid-February: appeal window closes (30 days after postmark).
• Early July: tax bills mailed by the treasurer.
• First Monday in August: first installment due.
• First Monday in October: second installment due.
• December: delinquent parcels added to the spring lien list.

Property owners should mark the appeal and payment deadlines when the valuation notice and tax bill arrive.

Sparks Property Tax Glossary

Common terms used on Sparks Property Tax bills and notices include:

• Assessed Value: dollar value assigned by the assessor for tax calculation.
• Full Cash Value: market value standard used by Nevada assessors.
• Tax Cap: 3% annual limit for owner-occupied homes under NRS 361.471.
• Installment: one of the two required payments per tax year.
• Delinquency: status triggered when an installment is unpaid after the due date.
• Appeal: formal challenge to the assessed value set by the assessor.

This glossary helps new Sparks owners read their tax documents with confidence.

Sparks Property Tax Bill Adjustments

Bill adjustments happen when the assessor corrects an error, grants a new exemption, or applies a Tax Commission ruling. The Washoe County Treasurer recalculates the balance and mails an adjusted bill to the owner.

Adjustments can lower or raise the original bill. Refunds issue automatically when the adjustment results in a credit balance above a small threshold set by the treasurer.

Common adjustment triggers for Sparks parcels:

• Approval of a senior or veteran exemption after the original bill mailed.
• Successful appeal that lowers the assessed value.
• Correction of a parcel classification or square footage error.
• Removal of an exemption that no longer applies to the property.

Sparks Property Tax Owner Responsibilities

Property owners in Sparks hold several ongoing responsibilities tied to the tax cycle. Failure to meet these responsibilities can trigger penalties, interest, or loss of exemption status.

Standard owner responsibilities include:

• Review the annual valuation notice for errors within the appeal window.
• File exemption applications by the assessor deadline each year if eligible.
• Pay each installment on or before the due date to avoid penalties.
• Update mailing address with the treasurer after a move.
• Notify the recorder after a deed transfer to keep ownership records current.

Owners who stay proactive with these tasks usually avoid surprise bills or penalty accruals.

Sparks Property Tax Exemption Recertification

Some Sparks Property Tax exemptions require periodic recertification. The senior exemption, for example, does not need annual renewal, but the veteran exemption may require updated VA documentation if the rating changes.

Recertification steps vary by exemption type. The assessor mails a notice when recertification is required, and the owner must respond by the deadline to keep the exemption active.

Recertification triggers for Sparks parcels:

• Change in disability rating for a veteran exemption.
• Change in property use that affects the senior exemption.
• Sale or transfer of a property with an active exemption.
• Conversion of a primary residence to a rental property.

Sparks Property Tax Payment Methods Compared

Each payment method carries different processing times and fees. The table below shows how common options compare for Sparks owners.

ACH electronic check offers the lowest cost and fastest posting for most Sparks owners.

Sparks Property Tax Records Retention

Washoe County retains Sparks Property Tax records for at least the period required by Nevada law. Assessment rolls stay available for ten years, and payment records remain accessible for at least seven years.

Older records can be requested from the archives division of each office. The treasurer, assessor, and recorder each maintain their own retention schedules based on state requirements.

Record types and their typical retention periods:

• Assessment rolls: ten years minimum.
• Payment records: seven years minimum.
• Recorded deeds: permanent retention.
• Exemption applications: seven years after expiration.
• Appeal files: ten years after final decision.

Sparks Property Tax Prepayment Strategy

Some Sparks owners prepay property tax to support escrow accounts or to capture a deduction in the current tax year. Prepayments apply to the next installment unless the owner specifies a different allocation.

Prepayment rules for Sparks parcels:

• Apply to the next installment by default.
• Apply to a specific tax year with a written request to the treasurer.
• Refund only when the prepayment exceeds the total annual bill.
• Posted immediately on the day the treasurer receives the funds.

Owners should confirm allocation with the treasurer before sending a large prepayment to avoid posting errors.

Sparks Property Tax Impact of New Construction

New construction in Sparks removes the property from the tax cap because the value is new as of the lien date. The assessor assigns a full cash value based on the construction cost or market data.

The first tax bill for a new Sparks build arrives in the fiscal year after the certificate of occupancy issues. Builders and new owners should plan for the bill within twelve months of completion.

Construction cost components used in Sparks valuations:

• Land value at the lien date.
• Material and labor cost for the structure.
• Permit fees paid to Washoe County or the City of Sparks.
• Site improvements such as landscaping and paving.

Sparks Property Tax Communication Channels

Sparks owners can reach the Washoe County offices through several channels. Each office sets its own hours and preferred contact method for different request types.

Common contact channels include:

• Phone support during posted business hours.
• Email for non-urgent questions and document submission.
• Online portals for parcel and payment records.
• In-person visits to the Reno office for complex issues.
• Mail for formal appeals, exemption applications, and recorded documents.

Phone and email are the fastest channels for routine questions, while formal appeals require written submission by mail or through the assessor portal.

Sparks Property Tax Planning Tips

Planning helps Sparks owners manage annual tax liability and avoid surprises. The list below covers practical steps for budgeting and tax management.

• Pull the current assessed value from the assessor portal before each budget cycle.
• Track exemption renewal deadlines on a personal calendar.
• Set up autopay through the treasurer to avoid missed installments.
• Save confirmation receipts for at least three years.
• Review the valuation notice each January for potential appeal grounds.

Proactive planning keeps tax liability predictable and reduces the risk of penalty accrual.

Sparks Property Tax Records and Privacy

Public tax records are accessible under Nevada law, but certain personal details stay protected. The assessor redacts sensitive information such as Social Security numbers from public documents.

Privacy protections for Sparks parcel records:

• Owner name appears on public records.
• Mailing address appears on public records unless a confidentiality flag is filed.
• Phone number and email do not appear on public records.
• Social Security numbers stay redacted from all public documents.

Owners concerned about privacy can file a confidentiality request with the assessor to limit public display of the mailing address.

Sparks Property Tax Service Standards

The Washoe County offices publish service standards for response time and processing. These standards help Sparks owners know what to expect from each office.

Typical service standards that apply to Sparks parcels:

• Phone answer time: under three minutes during business hours.
• Email response: within two business days.
• Recorded document processing: same day for in-person filings.
• Assessment notice mailing: complete by January 10 each year.
• Treasurer payment posting: same business day for online payments.

Owners who experience delays beyond these standards can request escalation through the office manager.

Contact, Local Details, and Map

Direct contact details for the Washoe County offices that handle Sparks Property Tax are listed below. These details come from the official records and remain the verified source for parcel, payment, and recording questions.

Tax Assessor – Washoe County Assessor’s Office

• Official Website:

  https://www.washoecounty.gov/assessor/

• Direct Public Search Portal: https://www.washoecounty.gov/assessor/online_data/index.php
• Phone: (775) 328-2277
• Email: exemptions@washoecounty.gov
• Address: 1001 E. 9th Street, Reno, NV 89512

Deed Recorder – Washoe County Recorder’s Office

• Official Website: https://www.washoecounty.gov/recorder/
• Direct Public Search Portal: https://recorder.washoecounty.gov/recorder/web/
• Phone: (775) 328-3660
• Email: record@washoecounty.gov
• Address: 1001 E. 9th Street, Bldg A, Suite 140, Reno, NV 89512

Frequently Asked Questions

Sparks Property Tax affects every homeowner and investor in the city. Knowing the rates, payment deadlines, and exemption options helps you avoid penalties and keep costs predictable. The Washoe County Assessor’s Office hosts online tools for calculations, bill payments, and appeals, making it easy to stay current and protect your property value.

What are the current Sparks Nevada property tax rates for 2026?

The 2026 rate combines a 0.43% city levy with a 0.57% county levy, totaling 1.00% of assessed value. For a home assessed at $250,000, the tax bill equals $2,500. Rates may vary for commercial parcels or vacant land. Check the online calculator on the Washoe County Assessor portal for precise figures based on your parcel number.

When is the Sparks property tax payment deadline for 2026?

All property owners must pay the first half of the 2026 bill by October 31 and the second half by January 31, 2026. Early payment through the City Tax Collector’s website reduces the chance of late fees. Mark these dates on your calendar and set up an online reminder to stay on track.

How can seniors claim Sparks property tax exemptions?

Seniors 65 and older may qualify for a 25% exemption on the assessed value of their primary residence. To apply, submit a completed exemption form to the Washoe County Assessor’s Office via email or in person before December 31, 2026. Bring proof of age and proof of ownership. Once approved, the reduction appears on the next tax bill.

What steps are involved in the Sparks property tax appeal process?

If you believe your assessment is too high, start by reviewing your parcel’s data on the assessor’s online portal. Gather recent sales or improvement records, then file a written appeal with the County Assessor’s Office before April 30, 2026. Attend the hearing, present evidence, and await the officer’s decision. Successful appeals can lower your taxable value and future bills.

Where can I find the Sparks property tax calculator online?

The Washoe County Assessor’s website hosts a free calculator. Enter your parcel number, assessed value, and any exemptions you hold. The tool instantly shows the total tax due, breakdown by city and county, and payment options. Use this calculator before budgeting for a new purchase or when reviewing your annual bill.