If you are a Texas homeowner and believe your property tax assessment is too high, you can protest it. The process can be time-consuming and complex, but it’s worth pursuing if you think your taxes are unfairly high. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you protest your property taxes in Texas.
Step 1: Gather Evidence
First, you must gather evidence supporting your claim that your property taxes are too high. This could include recent appraisals, home inspection reports, photos of your property, and any relevant market data that suggests your home is overvalued.
Step 2: Contact Your Local Tax Assessor
The next step is to contact your local tax assessor’s office and request an informal hearing. You can either do this by phone or in person, depending on the policies of your local office.
Step 3: Prepare for the Hearing
Once you’ve scheduled your hearing, you need to prepare your case. This means presenting your evidence and arguments clearly and concisely. You should be ready to explain why you believe your home is overvalued and provide specific examples to support your claim.
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
On the day of the hearing, arrive early and dress professionally. Be prepared to present your evidence and answer any questions the assessor may have. Always be courteous and respectful, even if you disagree with the assessor’s decision.
Step 5: Review the Decision
If the assessor agrees with your claim and lowers your property tax assessment, you can accept the decision and move on. If not, you may need to file a formal appeal. Contact your local appraisal review board to find out what the process entails.
Step 6: File a Formal Appeal
If you decide to file a formal appeal, you must fill out the appropriate forms and pay a filing fee. Preparing a strong case with additional evidence and arguments to support your claim would be best.
Step 7: Attend the Formal Hearing
At the formal hearing, you must present your evidence and arguments again. You may also have the opportunity to cross-examine the assessor and other witnesses. After the hearing, the board will issue a decision.
Step 8: Review the Final Decision
If the board agrees with your claim, your property tax assessment will be adjusted accordingly. If not, you may need to consider other options for protesting your taxes, such as filing a lawsuit or seeking help from a tax professional.
Protesting your property taxes in Texas can be difficult and time-consuming, but it can save you a significant amount of money each year. By following these steps and being prepared, you can increase your chances of success and avoid paying more than you need to. Tarrant County residents can protest and negotiate an immediate reduction online using the link below.
LINKS
Tarrant County Online Property Tax Reduction
Tax Assessor-Collector (tarrantcountytx.gov)
Fernanda Bell
Real Estate Specialist
www.homesforsaledfwtexas.com
