Texas has no income tax but high property taxes. Learn how to successfully protest your appraisal and save thousands.
With no state income tax, Texas relies heavily on property taxes. However, the protest system allows homeowners to challenge unfair valuations.
## Understanding Texas Appraisals
### Annual Reappraisal - Properties reappraised yearly - Market value determination - Notices sent April-May - Protest deadline: Usually May 15 or 30 days after notice
### Homestead Cap For primary residences: - Appraised value can't increase more than 10%/year - Taxable value different from market value - Major benefit during appreciation
## Protest Process
### Informal Hearing First step after filing: - Meet with appraiser - Present evidence - Many cases resolved here - No downside to trying
### Formal Hearing (ARB) If informal fails: - Appraisal Review Board hearing - Present your case - Comparable sales evidence - Decision binding (can appeal)
## Building Your Case
### Evidence Types - Comparable sales (most effective) - Equity comparisons - Condition issues - Unequal appraisal argument
### Finding Comparables - Same neighborhood - Similar size and age - Sold within past year - Lower per-square-foot value
## Professional Help
### Property Tax Consultants - Contingency fee (typically 40-50% of savings) - Handle entire process - Experience with appraisal districts - No savings = no fee
### When to DIY - Simple residential cases - Clear comparable evidence - Comfortable presenting - Value relatively low
## Deadline Reminders
Don't miss: - Protest filing deadline - Hearing scheduling - ARB decision appeal period