Rate Breakdown

Property taxes in Callahan 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 Callahan County

Property tax in Callahan County is administered by the county's appraisal district, responsible for assessing the value of all taxable properties within the county. The assessment process typically involves the following steps:

The appraisal district sends out notices to property owners each year, typically in the spring, outlining the property's assessed value and any changes made to the previous year's assessment.

• The assessed value is determined by multiplying the property's market value by the applicable tax rate or "millage rate."
• The millage rate is set annually by the Callahan County Commissioners Court and can vary depending on the type of property and its location within the county.
• Homeowners can appeal their assessment if they believe it's inaccurate or if they qualify for specific exemptions.

Available Exemptions

Texas offers several exemptions to property owners, which can significantly reduce their tax liability. Some of the most common exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: Eligible homeowners can reduce their taxable value by up to $5,000, saving approximately $25-$50 on their annual tax bill.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Taxpayers aged 65 and older may be eligible for a reduction in their taxable value, potentially saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually.
• Disability Exemption: Property owners with a disability may be eligible for a reduction in their taxable value, which can lead to significant tax savings.
• Veteran Exemption: Eligible veterans, including those with 100% disabled ratings, may be exempt from paying property taxes or receive a reduced taxable value.

It's essential to note that these exemptions are subject to specific eligibility requirements and income limits. Homeowners should review the Texas Property Tax Code and consult with the Callahan County Appraisal District to determine their eligibility.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property owners in Callahan County are required to pay their taxes by the designated deadline to avoid penalties and interest. The payment schedule typically follows this format:

• First Installment: Due in April, covering 50% of the year's taxes.
• Second Installment: Due in October, covering the remaining 50% of the year's taxes.

Failure to pay taxes by the deadline will result in penalties and interest, which can significantly increase the overall tax liability. Property owners should make timely payments to avoid these consequences.

Appealing Your Assessment

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property's assessment is inaccurate or you qualify for a specific exemption, you can appeal your assessment through the Callahan County Appraisal Review Board (ARB). Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Review your Notice of Appraised Value: Carefully examine the notice to ensure the assessment accurately reflects your property's market value.
• Gather supporting documentation: Collect any evidence that may support your appeal, such as recent sales of similar properties, appraisals, or photographs of your property.
• Submit a protest: File a written protest with the ARB within 30 days of receiving the notice, stating your reasons for appealing the assessment.
• Participate in a hearing: If your protest is not resolved, you may be required to attend a hearing before the ARB, where you'll present your case and any supporting evidence.
• Receive a final decision: The ARB will review your appeal and make a final decision, which may result in a revised assessment or exemption.

It's essential to note that the ARB's decision is final and binding, unless you choose to appeal to the county appraisal review board or a district court. Homeowners should carefully review their assessment and seek professional advice if needed to ensure they receive a fair and accurate valuation. By understanding the assessment process, available exemptions, payment schedule, and appeals process, property owners in Callahan County can make informed decisions and take advantage of potential tax savings.