Texas has no state income tax — the state runs largely on property taxes. That means the value the county assigns your home decides what you pay every year. And that value is often inflated.
The dates that matter
Your appraisal district (HCAD in Harris, MCAD in Montgomery) mails your value notice in March–April. From then you have until May 15 (or 30 days after the notice, whichever is later) to file your protest.
How to protest, step by step
- File online — through the district portal (HCAD's iFile, for example). Check both "market value is too high" AND "unequal appraisal" — always both boxes.
- Gather evidence — photos of needed repairs, contractor estimates, and comparable sales in your area. This is where an agent can help with real MLS comparables.
- The informal meeting — most cases settle here, in a conversation with a district appraiser. Bring evidence, not anger: numbers persuade better than arguments.
- The formal ARB hearing — if there's no agreement, you present to an independent panel. Still free, no lawyer needed.
The fact almost nobody uses: if the home is your primary residence, make sure you have the homestead exemption — it lowers your taxable value and caps annual increases at 10%. One free form, one time. If you don't have it, you're giving money away.
Is it worth it?
A $30,000 reduction in assessed value can mean hundreds of dollars saved per year, every year. Half an hour of paperwork with a permanent return. Want help pulling comparables for your case? I'll do it at no cost.
Want to talk about your case? Free 15-minute call — in English or Spanish: book here or WhatsApp 346-809-2272.