Harris County Homeowners: Protest Property Tax Appraisal Values Before May 15 Deadline

Understanding Property Tax Appraisals

• 🏠 Each year, the Harris County Appraisal District sends out notices estimating the market value of your home, which forms the basis for your annual property taxes.
• ⚠️ If you believe your home's appraised value is too high, you have the right to challenge it by filing a protest.

Key Deadlines and Protest Process

• 🗓️ The deadline to file a protest is May 15th, or 30 days after the date your value notice was mailed.
• 💻 The easiest way to submit a protest is online through the I-File system, using the I-File number found on your mailed notice.
• 📝 You can also protest in person or by mail.

Supporting Your Protest

• 📚 To support your case for a lower appraisal value, gather documents such as repair estimates, photos of property damage, or records of sales of similar homes in your area.
• 🤝 After submitting evidence, an offer will be sent electronically. Accepting this offer settles the protest for the year.
• ⚖️ If you disagree with the offer, you can proceed to an Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing, where an independent panel will review the evidence.

Additional Resources and Savings

• 💰 Even small reductions in your appraised value can lead to significant savings on your tax bill.
• 🧑‍💼 Private companies are available to protest on your behalf, typically charging a percentage (around 25%) of the savings they achieve for you.
• 🌐 Free workshops are available throughout May to assist homeowners with the protest process; check hcad.org for locations and times.