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

If you’re a homeowner in San Antonio, rising property tax assessments might feel overwhelming. Fortunately, appealing your property taxes can help you reduce your tax burden. This guide covers the appeal process, insights into local tax rates, trends, and exemptions, and answers to common questions for navigating the system effectively.

Understanding Property Taxes in San Antonio

Property taxes in San Antonio are determined annually by the Bexar Appraisal District (BCAD). These taxes are calculated using three main factors:

• Appraised Value: The market value of your home as assessed by BCAD.
• Tax Rate: A percentage determined by local taxing authorities, such as the city, school district, or county.
• Exemptions: Reductions in taxable value, including homestead, senior citizen, or disabled veteran exemptions.
  

San Antonio Property Tax Rates

San Antonio property tax rates vary depending on the taxing entities applicable to your property. For example:

• City of San Antonio Rate: 0.55827%
• Northside ISD Rate: 1.1946%
• Bexar County Rate: 0.27639%
• Average Total Property Tax Rate: Approximately 2.10%.
  

These rates can change annually based on local budgets and voter-approved measures. Areas like Stone Oak (78258) and Alamo Heights (78209) often experience higher property values and corresponding assessments.‍

Popular Zip Codes and Tax Trends

Certain neighborhoods in San Antonio have seen significant increases in property values, resulting in higher tax assessments:

• 78209 (Alamo Heights): Known for its desirable location and luxury homes.
• 78258 (Stone Oak): Rapid growth and new developments have driven up property values.
• 78230 (Shavano Park): Features high-value properties with consistent appreciation.
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Appealing Property Taxes in San Antonio

Review Your Appraisal Notice

Each spring, BCAD sends appraisal notices with assessed values. Review your notice for:

• Appraised Value: Does it accurately reflect your home’s market value?
• Property Details: Are there errors in square footage, lot size, or improvements?
  

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

Should you protest your taxes every year?

Yes. San Antonio property owners can file a protest annually to ensure their assessments remain fair and accurate.

File Your Protest

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

• Online: Use BCAD’s online appeal system.
• Mail: Submit the Notice of Protest (Form 50-132) to:

Bexar Appraisal District

P.O. Box 830248

San Antonio, TX 78283

• In Person: Drop off the form at 411 N. Frio, San Antonio, TX 78207.
  

Gather Supporting Evidence

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

• Comparable Sales Data: Recent sales of similar properties in your zip code (e.g., 78258 or 78209).
• Independent Appraisals: Professional assessments showing your home’s fair market value.
• Photos: Visual evidence of damage or needed repairs, such as foundation cracks or roof issues.
  

Attend the Informal Review

During an informal review, you’ll meet with a BCAD appraiser to present your case. Often, this step can lead to a reduction in your property’s appraised value without the need for a formal hearing.

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.
  

What happens if you’re dissatisfied with the ARB decision?

You can pursue binding arbitration or file a court appeal for further review.

San Antonio Property Tax Exemptions

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 damaged by hurricanes or flooding.

Visit BCAD’s exemptions page for more details and application forms.

San Antonio Property Tax Trends

• Rising Home Values: Neighborhoods like Downtown San Antonio (78205) and Castle Hills (78213) are seeing higher property tax bills due to increased demand.
• New Developments: Suburban areas like Cibolo (78108) are experiencing rapid growth, leading to higher assessments.
• Legislative Changes: Recent laws cap annual appraisal increases for homestead properties at 10%.
  

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 in San Antonio today with Abode.

Final Thoughts

Appealing your property taxes in San Antonio can save you money and ensure your property is fairly assessed. By following this guide and leveraging tools like Abode, you can simplify the process and improve your chances of success.

File your San Antonio property tax protest today!