HAYS COUNTY APPRAISAL DISTRICT | TRAVIS COUNTY APPRAISAL DISTRICT | WILLIAMSON COUNTY APPRAISAL DISTRICT |
FAQ: What does it mean to “PROTEST” your property’s appraised value or taxes?
A: Every year your local Appraisal District sets an appraised value on your property based on market conditions, comparable home sales, and other factors. The appraised value is used to determine how much property tax you owe. To protest is to notify the appraisal district that the value they have set is too high in comparison to other properties in your area.
FAQ: Why should I protest my property’s appraised value?
A: The appraised value of your property directly impacts your property taxes. If the appraised value is higher than the actual market value of your property, you’re paying more than you should be in property taxes! Protesting allows you to argue that the value is too high, and that your property should be taxed at a lower value which in turn would lower your tax bill.
FAQ: What is the “Notice of Appraised Value”?
A: The “Notice of Appraised Value” is a document that is mailed annually to property owners by the County Appraisal District in which the property is located, usually in April or May, that informs property owners about their proposed appraised value for the current year.
FAQ: How are my taxes calculated?
A: “Appraised Value” x “Tax Rate” = “Property Taxes”
FAQ: If I protest my “Appraised Value”, does that mean my property is worth less?
A: No. The market value of a property is not determined by the appraisal district’s value. When you plan to sell, a Real Estate Agent will obtain recent sales prices of similar properties in your area to determine your estimated market value. Additionally, it may be more attractive to a buyer if the taxes on your home are less. That means less out of pocket for them.
FAQ: Does it cost me anything to file a protest?
A: No. Protesting your property’s appraised value does not cost you anything as a homeowner unless of course you choose to hire a professional service. If you choose this route, they may charge a fee—usually a percentage of the amount they save you on your taxes.
