How to Appeal Property Taxes in Austin: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re an Austin homeowner dealing with rising property tax assessments, appealing your taxes could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about protesting property taxes in Austin, from understanding the process to leveraging local trends, exemptions, and resources.

Understanding Property Taxes in Austin

Property taxes in Austin are determined by the Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD). These taxes are based on three key factors:

• Appraised Value: The market value of your home as assessed by TCAD.
• Tax Rate: A percentage set by local taxing entities, such as the city, county, and school districts.
• Exemptions: Reductions in taxable value, like homestead, senior citizen, or disabled veteran exemptions.
  

Austin Property Tax Rates

Austin’s property tax rates vary depending on your taxing jurisdictions. For example:

• City of Austin Rate: 0.5410%
• Austin ISD Rate: 1.0167%
• Travis County Rate: 0.3542%
• Average Total Property Tax Rate: Approximately 2.17%.

Note: Rates are subject to annual adjustments based on local budgets and voter-approved measures.

Popular Zip Codes and Property Tax Trends

Certain Austin neighborhoods have seen dramatic increases in property values, driving higher assessments:

• 78704 (South Congress): Rapid appreciation due to revitalization projects.
• 78731 (Northwest Hills): High-value homes with consistent value growth.
• 78746 (West Lake Hills): Luxury properties that command premium assessments.
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Appealing Property Taxes in Austin

Review Your Appraisal Notice

Each spring, TCAD sends homeowners a notice of appraised value. Carefully review this document for:

• Appraised Value: Does it accurately reflect your home’s market value?
• Property Details: Are square footage, lot size, and improvements listed correctly?
  

What if your appraisal notice contains errors?

Gather evidence such as photos, repair estimates, and recent comparable sales data to support your case.

Decide Whether to Protest

Protesting your property taxes is worth considering if:

• Your appraised value exceeds market value.
• Comparable properties in your neighborhood are assessed lower.
• Errors exist in your property’s description or condition.

File Your Protest

The protest deadline is May 15th or 30 days after receiving your appraisal notice. File your protest through:

• Online: Use TCAD’s online protest portal.
• Mail: Submit a completed Notice of Protest (Form 50-132) to:

Travis Central Appraisal District

P.O. Box 149012

Austin, TX 78714

• In Person: Drop off your form at 850 East Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752.
  

Gather Supporting Evidence

The strength of your protest lies in your evidence. Effective documentation includes:

• Comparable Sales Data: Comparable Sales Data: Recent home sales in your area (e.g., homes in 78746 or 78704).
• Independent Appraisals: Professional assessments showing your home’s fair market value.
• Photos: Document issues like structural damage or outdated systems.

Attend the Informal Review

Once your protest is filed, you may meet with a TCAD appraiser to discuss your case. Many disputes are resolved during this step

What happens during an informal review?

• Present your evidence to the appraiser.
• Discuss any discrepancies in the assessed value.
• If no agreement is reached, your protest will proceed to the formal hearing stage.
  

Prepare for the Formal ARB Hearing

The Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing is your opportunity to present your case to a panel of independent reviewers. During the hearing:

• Clearly explain why your home’s appraised value is incorrect.
• Use data and visuals to support your argument.
• Be prepared to answer questions about your property.
  

Explore Further Appeals

If you’re dissatisfied with the ARB decision, you can pursue:

• Binding Arbitration: A less formal alternative to court.
• Court Appeals: File a lawsuit for a more thorough review.
  

Exemptions to Reduce Property Taxes in Austin

Exemptions can significantly reduce your tax liability. Common exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: Reduces taxable value by up to 20% for primary residences.
• Over-65 or Disabled Exemption: Offers additional savings for qualifying homeowners.
• Veteran Exemptions: Based on service-related disability percentages.
• Disaster Exemptions: Temporary reductions for homes affected by natural disasters.
  

Visit TCAD’s exemptions page for more details.

Austin Property Tax Trends

• Rising Home Values: Austin’s average home value rose by over 30% in the past five years, significantly impacting tax assessments.
• Legislative Caps: Recent laws cap annual appraisal increases for homestead properties at 10%, but rental and investment properties aren’t protected.
• Neighborhood Trends: Areas like 78701 (Downtown) and 78745 (South Austin) are seeing sharp increases in tax bills due to demand.
  

How Abode Can Help

Navigating the property tax appeal process can be complicated, but Abode makes it easier:

• Local Data Access: Compare sales and assessments in your area.
• Streamlined Filing Tools: Submit your protest quickly and accurately.
• Exemption Assistance: Ensure you’re taking full advantage of available tax savings.
  

Start saving on property taxes with Abode.

Final Thoughts

Appealing your property taxes in Austin is your chance to save money and ensure a fair appraisal. By following this guide and leveraging tools like Abode, you can simplify the process and maximize your chances of success.