Navigating property taxes in Texas can be overwhelming, but staying informed about key dates ensures you fulfill your obligations and take advantage of opportunities like protests and exemptions. This guide outlines the critical property tax dates for residential property owners in Texas.
January 1: Property Appraisal Date
The value of your property as of January 1 determines your tax liability for the year. This date is significant because the appraisal district assesses the market value of your property based on its condition and use on this day.
January 31: Tax Payment Deadline
Property taxes are due by January 31 of the year following the tax year. Paying on time avoids penalties and interest. If you miss this deadline, additional fees start accruing in February.
April: Notice of Appraised Value
During April, appraisal districts send out notices of appraised value to property owners. This notice informs you of the assessed value of your property and exemptions applied. Review this notice carefully for any discrepancies.
April 30: Homestead Exemption Application Deadline
Homeowners must file for exemptions, such as the general homestead exemption or the over-65 exemption, by April 30 to apply to the current tax year. Exemptions lower your taxable property value, potentially reducing your tax bill.
May 15 or 30 Days After Receiving Appraisal Notice: Protest Deadline
If you disagree with your property’s appraised value, you must file a protest with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB) by May 15 or 30 days after receiving your notice, whichever is later. Protesting can help ensure a fair valuation.
July: ARB Hearings
Protests filed earlier in the year are typically heard by the ARB in July. During these hearings, property owners can present evidence to contest their property valuation.
October: Tax Statements Issued
Taxing units issue tax bills in October based on the certified appraisal rolls. This bill details the amount owed and the due date, typically January 31 of the following year.
December 31: Partial Payment Deadline
If you’re unable to pay your property taxes in full by the January 31 deadline, consider making a partial payment by December 31 to reduce penalties and interest on the remaining balance.
Summary of Key Dates
| Date | Event |
| January 1 | Property appraisal date |
| January 31 | Tax payment deadline |
| April | Notice of Appraised Value |
| April 30 | Homestead exemption application deadline |
| May 15 | Protest deadline (or 30 days after notice receipt) |
| July | ARB hearings |
| October | Tax statements issued |
| December 31 | Partial payment deadline |
Why These Dates Matter
Staying on top of these deadlines helps you avoid penalties, ensures your property is appraised fairly, and allows you to benefit from all available tax exemptions. Missing deadlines can result in higher tax bills or forfeiting your right to contest a valuation.
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