Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Austin County are calculated by multiplying the assessed value (minus exemptions) by the total local millage rate.

Authority	Avg. Rate
County General Fund	0.45%
School District (Avg)	1.20%
City / Local (Avg)	0.35%

How Property Tax Works in Austin County

In Austin County, Texas, the property tax system is governed by the Texas Property Tax Code. The assessment process involves evaluating the value of real and personal property to determine the taxable amount. Here's a step-by-step explanation:

• The Central Appraisal District (CAD) of Austin County assesses the value of properties
• Appraised values are based on the market value of properties as of January 1st of each year
• The CAD then applies the applicable tax rates to determine the taxable amount
• The tax rate is composed of the county tax rate, the school district tax rate, and any special district tax rates
• The total tax amount is calculated by multiplying the taxable value by the tax rate

Tax rates in Austin County vary depending on the location and type of property. The millage rate is the rate at which taxes are levied on property, expressed in dollars per $1,000 of assessed value. For example, if the millage rate is 70 cents, the tax on a $100,000 property would be $700.

Available Exemptions

Texas offers several exemptions to reduce the taxable value of properties. Some of the available exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: A $25,000 exemption on the homestead property of a person who is 65 or older, or disabled
• Senior Citizen Exemption: A $10,000 exemption on the homestead property of a person 65 or older
• Disability Exemption: A $12,000 exemption on the homestead property of a person who is disabled
• Disabled Veterans Exemption: A $12,000 exemption on the homestead property of a disabled veteran
• Over 65/65+ Exemption: A $10,000 exemption on the homestead property of a person who is at least 65 years of age and is married to another person who is also at least 65 years of age, or a person who is at least 70 years of age and unmarried, or a person who is blind.

To qualify for these exemptions, you must meet the eligibility requirements and apply to the County Tax Assessor-Collector's office within the designated timeframe.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Payment deadlines for property taxes in Austin County are as follows:

• First installment payment deadline: February 1st
• Second installment payment deadline: May 1st
• Delinquent taxes become due on the later of August 1st or 30 days after the installment deadline
• Penalties and interest are applied to delinquent taxes

You can pay your property taxes online, by mail, or in person at the County Tax Assessor-Collector's office. It's essential to keep records of your payment and contact the office if you have any questions or concerns.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you disagree with the assessed value of your property, you can appeal to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The ARB is an independent board that reviews appeals of property values. To appeal, you must:

• Submit a written appeal to the ARB within 30 days of receiving the appraisal notice
• Attend a hearing before the ARB to present your case
• Provide supporting documentation and evidence to justify your appeal

If you're not satisfied with the ARB's decision, you can appeal to the Texas Comptroller's office or the district court.