Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Castro County

Property tax in Castro County, Texas, is calculated based on the assessed value of a property and the applicable millage rates. The assessment process begins with the Castro County Appraisal District, which determines the market value of each property. This value is then used to calculate the assessed value, which is typically a percentage of the market value. The millage rate, set by local taxing authorities such as the county, school district, and municipality, is applied to the assessed value to determine the annual property tax liability.

The millage rate in Castro County varies depending on the location of the property and the specific taxing authorities. Property owners can expect to pay taxes to the county, school district, and possibly a municipality or special district, depending on where they live. It's essential for property owners to understand the assessment process and millage rates to ensure they are not overpaying their property taxes.

Available Exemptions

Castro County property owners may be eligible for certain exemptions, which can reduce their property tax liability. The following exemptions are available in Texas:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence, this exemption can reduce the taxable value of the property by up to $25,000.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners 65 or older may be eligible for an additional exemption of $10,000 or more, depending on the taxing authority.
• Disability Exemption: Property owners with a disability may be eligible for an exemption of $10,000 or more, depending on the taxing authority.
• Veteran Exemption: Eligible veterans may be entitled to an exemption of $5,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on their disability rating and the taxing authority.

To qualify for these exemptions, property owners must meet specific requirements and submit an application to the Castro County Appraisal District by the designated deadline.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax payments in Castro County are typically due on January 31st of each year. However, property owners have the option to pay their taxes in installments, with deadlines on November 30th, December 31st, and January 31st. It's crucial to make timely payments to avoid late fees and penalties, which can add up quickly.

Failure to pay property taxes by the deadline can result in penalties, interest, and even tax liens or foreclosure. Property owners who are unable to pay their taxes in full should consider installment options or contact the Castro County Tax Assessor-Collector's office to discuss possible alternatives.

Appealing Your Assessment

If a property owner disagrees with their assessment, they can appeal the decision to the Castro County Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The appeals process typically begins with a protest filed with the appraisal district, followed by a hearing with the ARB. Property owners can represent themselves or hire a representative to advocate on their behalf.

To initiate the appeals process, property owners should review their assessment notice carefully and file a protest by the designated deadline, usually May 15th or 30 days after the notice is mailed, whichever is later. The ARB will then schedule a hearing to review the protest and make a determination on the assessment. Property owners who are dissatisfied with the ARB's decision can further appeal to the state district court.