What to Review
When you receive your appraisal notice, focus on a few key items:
- Assessed Value vs. Market Reality
Does the value align with what your home would reasonably sell for today?
- Year-over-Year Change
Has your value increased meaningfully compared to last year?
- Comparable Sales
Are similar homes in your area selling for less than your assessed value?
- Property Characteristics
Does the appraisal reflect your home’s actual condition, location, and features?
This review does not require a deep analysis. In many cases, a quick comparison is enough to determine whether further action is worth considering.
When a Protest May Make Sense
A property tax protest may be worth considering if:
- Your assessed value appears higher than market value
- Comparable sales suggest a lower valuation
- Unique factors (condition, location, needed repairs) are not reflected
Not every property benefits from a protest. The goal is not to protest every year, but to identify when the valuation may be inaccurate.
Two Ways to Approach It
1. Handle It Yourself
Homeowners can file a protest directly with their local appraisal district.
This typically involves:
- Filing within a defined window
- Providing supporting documentation
- Participating in an informal or formal review process
The process is manageable, but requires time and follow-through.
2. Work with a Professional
Some homeowners choose to work with a firm that handles the process on their behalf.
These providers typically:
- Evaluate whether a protest is warranted
- Gather supporting data
- Represent you in the process
Fees are often contingent on the tax savings achieved.
Some homeowners choose to work with a professional like Lower My Texas Property Taxes, LLC, or ask their realtor for a trusted referral.
We’re sharing this as a general resource. Property tax protests are outside the scope of our services and are typically handled directly with the appraisal district or through a specialized provider.
Important Timing Considerations
- There is a limited window each year to file a protest
- Deadlines vary slightly by location but are generally in the spring
- Missing the deadline typically means waiting until the following year
Because of this, reviewing your notice promptly is important.
A Note for Homeowners Age 65 and Older
Texas offers additional property tax benefits for homeowners age 65 and older.
If you qualify for the over-65 homestead exemption:
- You may receive an increased exemption amount on your primary residence
- School district taxes on your home may be “frozen,” limiting future increases (unless significant improvements are made)
These benefits can meaningfully reduce or stabilize property taxes over time.
If you believe you may qualify and have not applied, you can do so through your local appraisal district.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a property tax assessment?
It is the value your local appraisal district assigns to your home each year, which is used to calculate your property taxes.
Why should I review my assessment?
If your home is valued too high, you may be paying more in property taxes than necessary.
How do I know if my value is too high?
Compare it to recent home sales in your area and consider whether your home’s condition and features are accurately reflected.
Do I need to file a protest every year?
No. A protest is only necessary if the assessed value appears inaccurate.
How do I file a protest?
You can submit a protest through your local appraisal district, typically within a defined timeframe each year.
Should I use a professional service?
Some homeowners handle the process themselves, while others choose to work with a professional who manages it for a fee based on savings.
Are there professionals who can help with this?
Yes. Some homeowners work with firms like Lower My Texas Property Taxes, LLC, or ask their realtor for a referral.
Is there a property tax benefit for homeowners over age 65?
Yes. Qualifying homeowners may receive additional exemptions and a cap on certain property taxes for their primary residence.
Beaird Harris
