Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Madison County

In Madison County, Texas, property taxes are calculated based on the appraised value of your property and the combined tax rates (millage rates) set by local taxing entities. The process involves:

• Assessment: The Madison County Appraisal District (MCAD) determines the market value of your property annually. Appraisers consider factors like location, size, and recent sales of comparable properties.
• Tax Rates: Local entities, such as schools, cities, and county governments, set their own tax rates (expressed as a per $100 valuation). For example, if your home is valued at $200,000 and the combined rate is 2%, your annual tax would be $4,000.
• Tax Bills: The county tax assessor-collector calculates and mails tax bills in October, with payments due by January 31 of the following year.

Available Exemptions

Texas offers several property tax exemptions to reduce taxable value for eligible homeowners:

• Homestead Exemption: Primary residents may qualify for a $40,000 reduction in school district taxes and a $3,000 reduction for county taxes. Apply with MCAD by April 30.
• Senior Exemption (65+): Additional $10,000 homestead exemption for school taxes, plus potential tax freezes. Proof of age (e.g., driver’s license) is required.
• Disability Exemption: Similar to the senior exemption, available to disabled homeowners with documentation from a physician or federal agency.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may qualify for partial or full exemptions based on disability rating. Surviving spouses of veterans killed in action may also qualify.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Madison County property taxes are due in full by January 31 of each year. Key details include:

• Installment Plans: Homeowners may pay in four installments (Jan. 31, March 31, May 31, and July 31) without penalty if they opt in by January 31.
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes incur a 6% penalty in February, plus 1% interest monthly. After July, legal action (e.g., liens or foreclosure) may begin.
• Payment Methods: Pay online, by mail, or in person at the Madison County Tax Office. Discounts may apply for early payments in some cases.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property is overvalued, follow these steps to appeal:

• File a Protest: Submit a protest form to MCAD by May 15 (or 30 days after the appraisal notice is mailed). Include evidence like recent appraisals or photos of property flaws.
• Informal Review: MCAD may offer an informal meeting to adjust the value. Many disputes are resolved here.
• Appraisal Review Board (ARB): If unresolved, present your case to the ARB. Bring comparable sales data or expert testimony.
• Further Appeals: If dissatisfied, you may file a lawsuit or request binding arbitration (for properties under $5M in value).

For deadlines and forms, visit the Madison County Appraisal District website or call their office.