How it works
Were you shocked, like many other Texans were, when you saw your property tax appraisal this year? It seems like the government wants more of your money all the time, and overestimating what your property is worth is one way to do that.
If you disagree with your property tax valuation in Texas, you don’t have to accept what they estimate your home to be worth. There is a thirty-day window from when the county appraisal district mailed your valuation, for you to formally protest it.
This is done by filing a “Notice of Protest” (Form 50-132) with your county’s Appraisal Review Board, or ARB. In many counties, this form can be submitted electronically on the appraisal district’s website.
In your protest, include evidence that shows that your property is worth less than what the ARB tells you. This can include a recent appraisal of your home, the sales prices of other, similar houses in your neighborhood, or pictures of interior and exterior damage to your home.
Once you file your protest, you will be scheduled for a hearing of your case. Be there on time with all of the evidence you collected. They may try to informally settle with you before a formal hearing, but you have the right to continue your appeal and even take them to court if you still believe that your home is being overvalued.
For more information about the appeals process, visit fightyourappraisal.com. The Libertarian Party of Texas opposes all property taxes. To find out more about us, go to lptexas.org.
How to Appeal Your Property Tax Valuation in Texas
Learn the step-by-step procedures involved in appealing your property tax valuation in Texas. From filing a protest to exploring legal options, this guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you navigate the complexities of the appeal process effectively.
When you receive your property valuation notice, you have the option to file a protest if you disagree with the assessed value. This involves submitting a “Notice of Protest” (Form 50-132) to your county’s Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The deadline for filing is typically May 15 or 30 days after receiving the appraisal notice. Supporting evidence such as comparable sales data or property discrepancies can strengthen your case.
After filing a protest, you can choose to participate in an informal hearing with a staff appraiser at the appraisal district. During this session, you’ll have the chance to present your evidence, and the appraiser may offer a settlement to adjust your valuation. The effectiveness of this step varies depending on individual circumstances and the stance of the appraisal district.
If you’re dissatisfied with the outcome of the informal hearing, you can escalate your appeal to a formal hearing before the ARB. Here, both you and the appraisal district present evidence, and the ARB makes a determination. This process resembles a court hearing and can be conducted virtually. Decisions made by the ARB are binding if agreed upon, otherwise, further action is required.
Disagreeing with the ARB’s decision grants you the right to pursue further appeal. This can be achieved through binding arbitration for less complex cases or by initiating a lawsuit in district court. Opting for the latter is often recommended. Each method has specific procedures and potential costs, so the decision to proceed should consider the benefits against possible legal expenses. The filing fee for a lawsuit is approximately $350.
Following the filing of a lawsuit and the appraisal district’s response, negotiation for a settlement can occur. Often, simply initiating a lawsuit prompts the appraisal district to offer a reduction (around 5%). Further negotiation may lead to additional decreases. The potential savings, even just from the initial reduction, can justify the filing of a lawsuit.
In complex cases, employing a tax consultant or attorney can be advantageous. They can assist in managing the appeal process, compiling necessary documentation, and representing you during hearings. While their services may enhance the likelihood of a successful outcome, their fees should be considered against the potential benefits.