Texas Property Tax Calendar & Important Deadlines
Texas property taxes follow a predictable annual schedule. Knowing the important deadlines can help homeowners avoid penalties, preserve valuable tax exemptions, and ensure they don’t miss the opportunity to protest an appraisal.
This calendar outlines the key dates most Texas homeowners should know throughout the property tax year.
Estimate Your Texas Property Tax
Use our free Texas Property Tax Estimator to see how your appraised value and exemptions translate into an estimated annual tax bill – by county.
Open the Texas Property Tax EstimatorJanuary 1 – Property Assessment Date
January 1 is the official appraisal date in Texas. Your property’s ownership, condition, and eligibility for many exemptions are generally determined as of this date.
If you purchased a home after January 1, the previous owner is typically responsible for the property’s tax status for that year, although the tax bill may be prorated during closing.
January Through April – File Exemption Applications
Homeowners who qualify for property tax exemptions should submit their applications as early as possible.
Common exemptions include:
- Residence Homestead Exemption
- Over-65 Homestead Exemption
- Disabled Person Exemption
- Disabled Veteran Exemptions
Many counties allow homeowners to apply online through their county appraisal district.
April – Appraisal Notices Mailed
Most Texas appraisal districts mail Notices of Appraised Value during April.
This notice shows:
- Your property’s current appraised value
- Any exemptions currently applied
- Instructions for filing an appraisal protest
Review your notice carefully for errors or unusually large increases in value.
May 15 – Typical Protest Deadline
Most property tax protests must be filed by:
- May 15, or
- 30 days after your appraisal notice was mailed, whichever is later
If you believe your home’s value is too high, don’t wait until the deadline approaches. Gathering evidence early often leads to better results.
May Through July – Protest Hearings
Appraisal districts generally schedule informal meetings and formal Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearings during late spring and early summer.
Many homeowners resolve their protest during the informal review before needing a formal hearing.
Summer – Tax Rates Adopted
Throughout the summer, local taxing entities begin proposing their annual tax rates.
These taxing units may include:
- School districts
- County governments
- Cities
- Hospital districts
- Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs)
- Other special taxing districts
Public hearings are often held before final tax rates are approved.
October – Tax Bills Mailed
County tax assessor-collectors generally mail annual property tax bills during October.
Review your bill to verify:
- Your exemptions were applied correctly
- Your taxable value matches your final appraisal
- Your payment information is accurate
January 31 – Property Tax Payment Deadline
Property taxes are generally due upon receipt, but become delinquent if not paid by January 31 of the following year.
Missing this deadline may result in:
- Penalty charges
- Interest charges
- Collection costs if taxes remain unpaid
Many homeowners pay their taxes through an escrow account maintained by their mortgage lender, while others pay directly to the county.
Waiting until October to discover your property tax bill can be frustrating. Our Texas Property Tax Estimator lets you estimate your annual property taxes months before tax bills are mailed.
The calculator factors in average county tax rates along with common exemptions, including:
- Residence Homestead Exemption
- Over-65 Additional Exemption
- Disabled Veteran Exemptions
Quick Reference Calendar
| Time of Year | Typical Event |
|---|---|
| January 1 | Property assessment date |
| January – April | Apply for property tax exemptions |
| April | Appraisal notices mailed |
| May 15* | Typical protest filing deadline |
| May – July | Informal reviews and ARB hearings |
| Summer | Local tax rates adopted |
| October | Property tax bills mailed |
| January 31 | Property tax payment deadline |
*In most cases, protests are due by May 15 or 30 days after your appraisal notice was mailed, whichever is later.
Plan Ahead With Confidence
Understanding the Texas property tax calendar helps you avoid missed deadlines, preserve valuable exemptions, and respond quickly if your appraised value seems too high. Use our estimator throughout the year to track how changes may affect your bill.
Estimate My Property TaxFrequently Asked Questions
When are Texas property taxes due?
Property taxes are generally due upon receipt of your bill in October, but they become delinquent if not paid by January 31 of the following year.
What is the deadline to protest my appraised value?
The typical deadline is May 15, or 30 days after your appraisal notice was mailed, whichever is later.
When should I apply for a homestead or other exemption?
Exemption applications are generally accepted from January through April, though many counties allow applications at other times as well. Applying as early as possible helps ensure the exemption is reflected on your appraisal notice.
What happens if I miss the January 31 payment deadline?
Unpaid property taxes become delinquent after January 31 and typically begin accruing penalties, interest, and eventually collection costs the longer they remain unpaid.
Can I estimate my property tax bill before it arrives in October?
Yes. Our Texas Property Tax Estimator lets you calculate an estimated bill using average county tax rates and common exemptions, months before your official bill is mailed.
Official Resources: For deadlines and forms specific to your area, contact your local county appraisal district. For general information, visit the Texas Comptroller Property Tax page.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered tax, legal, financial, or investment advice. Deadlines and procedures can vary by county and may change periodically. Consult your local county appraisal district or a qualified tax professional regarding your specific situation.