Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Henderson County

Property taxes in Henderson County are based on the assessed value of your property and the tax rates (millage rates) set by local taxing entities. The Henderson County Appraisal District (HCAD) is responsible for determining the market value of your property annually. This value is then multiplied by the assessment ratio (100% for residential properties) to calculate the taxable value.

Taxing entities, such as the county, school districts, and municipalities, set their own millage rates. These rates are applied to the taxable value to determine your property tax bill. For example, if your property’s taxable value is $200,000 and the combined millage rate is 2%, your annual property tax would be $4,000.

Available Exemptions

Texas offers several property tax exemptions to reduce your tax burden. Here are the most common exemptions available in Henderson County:

• Homestead Exemption: Available for primary residences, this exemption reduces the taxable value by a set amount (e.g., $25,000 for school taxes).
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older may qualify for additional exemptions, including a freeze on school taxes.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with disabilities may be eligible for exemptions similar to those for senior citizens.
• Veteran Exemption: Disabled veterans, surviving spouses, and active-duty military personnel may qualify for partial or full property tax exemptions.

To apply for exemptions, submit the appropriate forms to the HCAD. Deadlines and eligibility criteria vary, so check with the HCAD for specific requirements.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property tax bills in Henderson County are typically mailed in October, with payments due by January 31 of the following year. If you fail to pay by the deadline, penalties and interest will accrue. Henderson County offers several payment options:

• Full Payment: Pay the entire amount by January 31 to avoid penalties.
• Installments: Qualified homeowners may split payments into four installments, with the first due by January 31 and the last by April 30.

Late payments incur a penalty of 6% in February, with an additional 1% interest per month thereafter. Unpaid taxes may lead to a tax lien or foreclosure.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued, you can appeal the assessment with the HCAD. The process involves:

• Filing a Protest: Submit a protest form by May 15 or within 30 days of receiving your notice of appraisal.
• Providing Evidence: Gather supporting documents, such as recent sales of comparable properties or a professional appraisal.
• Attending a Hearing: Present your case to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB), which will make a final determination.

If unsatisfied with the ARB’s decision, you may pursue further appeals through district court or binding arbitration. Act promptly to meet deadlines and ensure your appeal is considered.