How are property taxes billed in Texas?
Andrew Mclaughlin
Published Apr 26, 2026
The property taxes you pay are based on the value of property you own. If, for instance, your property is worth half as much as the property owned by your neighbor (after any exemptions that apply), your tax bill should be one-half of your neighbor’s. This means that uniform appraisal is very important.
Where can I find my property tax statement in Texas?
You can find out how much your taxes are and make your payment by going to the Property Tax Lookup/Payment Application. You can also email your request for a tax statement to [email protected], or call our Customer Care Center 214-653-7811.
Can I defer property taxes in Texas?
The Texas Tax Code, Section 33.06, allows taxpayers 65 years of age or older to defer their property taxes until their estates are settled after death. The tax deferment, like a homestead exemption, is available to qualified homeowners free of charge. You don’t need to pay anyone to help you get these tax breaks.
How long can you go without paying your property taxes in Texas?
The period in which this occurs can range from 60 days to more than 120 days. It all depends on the taxing authority and local market conditions.
How does Texas assess property value?
In Texas, the taxable value of a residential property is 100% of its “market value”—basically, what it would sell for on the open market. The 100% figure is also known as the assessment ratio. The taxing authorities multiply the taxable value of your property by the tax rate to arrive at the tax you’ll owe.
When do you have to pay property tax in Texas?
Tax collection starts around October 1 as tax bills go out. Generally, taxpayers have until January 31 of the following year to pay their taxes. On February 1, penalty and interest charges begin accumulating on most unpaid tax bills. Tax collectors may start legal action to collect unpaid taxes on February 1. Does Texas have a state property tax?
When did Texas get rid of the property tax?
Texas voters subsequently nixed that tax in 1968. In the 1950s, Texas voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing the Confederate veterans’ portion of the tax to be used to finance the construction of new state buildings, as the number of beneficiaries had fallen significantly. It was finally repealed in 1979.
How is the value of a property determined in Texas?
Property values are determined by each county’s central appraisal district, which is led by a board appointed by all the taxing entities in the county. The Texas Constitution requires that all property be taxed equally and uniformly, and appraised at no more than its fair market value.
Where do I send my property tax bill?
The law requires us to send tax bills directly to the property owner. If your property taxes are put in escrow by your mortgage company, please be sure your mortgage company receives a copy of the bill. Copies of the bills are available to the mortgage companies electronically.