Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Kaufman County

In Kaufman County, property taxes are calculated based on the appraised value of your property and the applicable tax rates, known as millage rates. The Kaufman Central Appraisal District (KCAD) assesses the value of your property annually, ensuring it reflects current market conditions. Once the appraisal is complete, the taxable value is determined after applying any exemptions. The tax rate, expressed in mills (one mill equals $1 per $1,000 of taxable value), is set by local taxing entities such as the county, school districts, and municipalities. Your total property tax is the sum of taxes levied by these entities.

• Assessment: KCAD appraises your property based on market value.
• Taxable Value: Calculated after applying exemptions.
• Millage Rate: Determined by local taxing entities.
• Calculation: Taxable Value × Millage Rate = Property Tax.

Available Exemptions

Texas offers several property tax exemptions to reduce the taxable value of your property. In Kaufman County, eligible homeowners can apply for the following exemptions:

• Homestead Exemption: Available to primary residences, this exemption reduces the taxable value by a percentage set by the state.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65 or older qualify for additional exemptions and may have their school taxes frozen.
• Disability Exemption: Individuals with disabilities may receive exemptions similar to those for senior citizens.
• Veteran Exemption: Veterans with disabilities or their surviving spouses may qualify for partial or full exemptions based on disability rating.

To apply, submit the necessary documentation to the Kaufman Central Appraisal District.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Property taxes in Kaufman County are typically due by January 31 of the following year. However, you have the option to pay in installments:

• Full Payment: Due by January 31.
• Installments: First payment due by January 31, with subsequent payments due by March 31, May 31, and July 31.

Late payments incur penalties and interest. If taxes remain unpaid, the county may initiate legal action, including foreclosure. To avoid penalties, ensure payments are made on time.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property has been overvalued, you can appeal the assessment with the Kaufman Central Appraisal District. The process involves the following steps:

• File a Protest: Submit a protest form to KCAD by May 15 or within 30 days of receiving your appraisal notice.
• Gather Evidence: Collect supporting documents, such as recent sales of comparable properties or an independent appraisal.
• Attend a Hearing: Present your case to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB), which will decide whether to adjust your property’s value.
• Further Appeal: If unsatisfied with the ARB’s decision, you may appeal to district court or pursue binding arbitration.

Timely action and thorough documentation are key to a successful appeal.