5 Steps to Protest Your Texas Property Taxes
Introduction:
In Texas, property owners have the option to challenge their property taxes, aiming for fair valuation and a potential tax reduction. Understanding the process is crucial for advocating effectively. We spoke with Gill, Denson, and Company a local property tax protest firm, to outline the essential steps in disputing your Texas property taxes. In addition, we discuss why you may want to hire a firm to help you with the process.
Step 1: Assess Your Evaluation
Start by thoroughly reviewing your property assessment notice, typically from the local appraisal district. This notice outlines your property's assessed value, the basis for your tax bill. It is important to understand that the appraisal district is likely using mass appraisal methods to generate the tax assessment, which often relies on outdated or inaccurate information. This can cause many property owners to be overtaxed.
Step 2: File a Protest
Formally protest your property taxes by filing the appropriate paperwork with the appraisal district. This can usually be done online, via mail, or in person, following your district's procedures. Ensure submission before the deadline specified in your assessment notice.
Step 3: Collect Supporting Evidence
The next step to protesting your taxes is to gather evidence to bolster your case for a reduction. This might include recent sales data for similar properties in your vicinity, documentation of structural damage or issues impacting your property's value, and proof of any inaccuracies in the appraisal district's assessment.
Step 4: Present Your Reduction Arguments
After filing your protest, you will have the chance to present your case before the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). Prepare to articulate your evidence and arguments for a reduction in property valuation. Clarity, conciseness, and organization are key to enhancing your prospects of success.
Step 5: Await the Outcome
Following your hearing, the ARB will assess the evidence and decide on your property's valuation. A successful protest results in a revised assessment reflecting the lower valuation. Otherwise, you may explore further appeals through judicial routes.
Consider Professional Support
Challenging your Texas property taxes can be complex, but it presents opportunities for tax reduction. We advise engaging a property tax protest firm to enhance your chances of success. We've partnered with Gill, Denson & Company to offer a discounted rate on their protest services. Use the code CHRISPRICE on their signup form to redeem the discount. They charge only 25% of the taxes saved. If they don’t save you anything, you won’t owe them anything!