Every Texas property owner has the right to protest their property's assessed value if they believe it is too high. The protest process is a formal procedure through which you can challenge the appraisal district's valuation and seek a reduction in your assessed value.
When to File
The standard deadline to file a property tax protest in Texas is May 15 or 30 days after the appraisal notice is mailed, whichever is later. It is important to file before this deadline to preserve your right to protest.
Grounds for Protest
You can protest on several grounds, including: the assessed value exceeds the property's market value, the property was assessed unequally compared to similar properties, the appraisal district made errors in the property's description, or you are eligible for an exemption that was not applied.
The Hearing Process
After filing a protest, you will receive a hearing date with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). At the hearing, you or your representative can present evidence supporting a lower value. The ARB will review the evidence and issue a determination.
Working with a Professional
While you can protest on your own, many property owners choose to work with a professional consultant who can prepare evidence, navigate the process, and represent them at hearings. This often leads to better outcomes and saves significant time.