Rate Breakdown

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

Welcome to the Falls County Property Tax Estimator guide. This section will help you understand how property taxes are calculated, what exemptions may be available to you, important payment information, and how to appeal your property's assessed value.

How Property Tax Works in Falls County

Property taxes in Falls County are a primary source of funding for local government services, including schools, roads, and emergency services. The process begins with the Falls County Appraisal District, which is responsible for appraising all taxable property within the county at its market value as of January 1st each year. This appraised value is then used to calculate your tax liability. The amount of tax you owe is determined by multiplying your property's taxable value by the combined "millage rate" set by the various taxing entities that serve your area. A millage rate is expressed in mills, where one mill is equal to $1 of tax for every $1,000 of taxable value. The taxing entities, such as the county, local school districts, and cities, each set their own millage rates, which are then aggregated to form your total tax bill.

Available Exemptions

Falls County, in accordance with Texas state law, offers several property tax exemptions that can reduce your property's taxable value, thereby lowering your tax bill. Understanding and applying for these exemptions is crucial for homeowners. Common exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption: This is the most common exemption and is available to homeowners who occupy their property as their primary residence. It significantly reduces the taxable value of your home.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Available to homeowners who are 65 years of age or older. This exemption can provide an additional reduction in taxable value, and in some cases, can "freeze" the tax amount for a qualifying senior citizen.
• Disability Exemption: For individuals with a qualifying disability. Similar to the senior citizen exemption, this can reduce your taxable value.
• Veteran Exemption: For qualifying disabled veterans, their surviving spouses, or the surviving spouses of certain deceased veterans. The level of exemption often depends on the percentage of disability.

To claim any of these exemptions, you must file an application with the Falls County Appraisal District. There are specific eligibility requirements and deadlines for each exemption.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Falls County are typically due on January 1st of each year. The payment deadline is generally February 1st. However, if your tax bill is delivered to you after January 10th, you may have an additional 21 days to pay. Falls County offers an installment payment option for homestead properties with a tax bill exceeding $500. This allows you to pay your taxes in up to four installments, provided you pay at least half of your taxes by the February 1st deadline and subsequent installments by specified dates. Failure to pay your property taxes by the deadline will result in penalties and interest being added to your account, which can significantly increase the amount owed. It is imperative to pay on time or to arrange for an installment plan if you qualify.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been appraised at a value higher than its market value, you have the right to appeal your assessment. The first step in the appeals process is to file a Notice of Protest with the Falls County Appraisal District within the specified deadline, which is typically by May 15th or 30 days after the appraisal district mails your notice of appraised value, whichever is later. You will then have the opportunity to present your case to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The ARB is an independent panel that hears evidence from both property owners and the appraisal district to determine the correct appraised value. You can represent yourself or hire a professional to assist you in this process.