List of Ideas to Save Money on Texas Property Taxes

Property taxes can be a significant expense for homeowners in Texas, as they fund local services like schools, roads, and emergency services. While you can’t completely escape this obligation, there are ways to potentially reduce your property tax burden. Here’s a list of ideas to consider:

1. Homestead Exemption: Texas offers a homestead exemption that can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence. Ensure you apply for this exemption if you qualify.
2. Over-65 and Disabled Exemptions: Texas homeowners who are 65 or older or who are disabled may qualify for additional exemptions that decrease the taxable value of their homes.
3. Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans, their surviving spouses, or children might be eligible for property tax exemptions based on the degree of disability.
4. Agricultural and Wildlife Exemptions: If your property is used primarily for farming, ranching, or wildlife management, you might qualify for a special appraisal that can lower your tax burden.
5. Review Your Property Appraisal: Property tax amounts are based on the appraised value of your property. Regularly review your appraisal notice and consider challenging the appraisal if you believe your property’s value is overstated.
6. Consider a Property Tax Consultant: If you feel you’re not equipped to challenge an appraisal on your own, consider hiring a property tax consultant or attorney who specializes in such disputes.
7. Limit Curb Appeal During Appraisals: Appraisers often do a visual assessment of your property. Keeping ostentatious improvements or noticeable luxury items out of sight can potentially keep the appraised value down.
8. Stay Informed About Local Tax Rates: Different jurisdictions (school districts, cities, etc.) have different tax rates. While it might not be feasible to move solely based on tax rates, it’s useful information to have, especially if you’re considering purchasing a property.
9. Check for Errors: Ensure all details on your tax bill and property appraisal are correct, including the size of your lot, the square footage of your home, and the number of rooms. An error might be inflating your bill.
10. Installment Payments for Seniors: Homeowners who are 65 or older might be eligible to pay property taxes in installments without incurring penalties.
11. Tax Deferral: While this doesn’t save money in the long run, homeowners who are 65 or older or are disabled can apply for a tax deferral on their homestead, but the taxes will accrue interest and will become due when the homeowner moves or passes away.
12. Know Deadlines: Ensure you know when exemptions need to be filed and when any disputes or challenges need to be raised. Missing a deadline can mean missing out on potential savings.
13. Check Special District Assessments: Make sure you’re not being charged for special district assessments (like for flood control or community colleges) that don’t apply to your property.
14. Stay Updated with Legislative Changes: Tax laws and regulations can change. Stay updated with any new laws or changes in the legislature that might offer additional tax relief or savings opportunities.

Remember that while these strategies can potentially save you money, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re still meeting all of your legal obligations. When in doubt, consult with a local property tax expert or attorney to guide your decisions.