Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Morris County

In Morris County, Texas, property taxes are calculated based on the appraised value of your property and the combined millage rates set by local taxing entities, such as the county, school districts, and municipalities. The process involves:

• Assessment: The Morris 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 Rate Application: Local governments set millage rates (tax rates per $1,000 of assessed value). For example, if your home is appraised at $200,000 and the combined tax rate is 2%, your annual tax would be $4,000.
• Tax Bills: Tax bills are mailed 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 deduct a portion of their home’s value (up to 20% for county taxes). School districts offer additional exemptions (e.g., $25,000 for ISD taxes).
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65+ qualify for an additional $10,000 homestead exemption and may defer taxes until the property is sold.
• Disability Exemption: Disabled homeowners receive similar benefits to seniors, including exemption increases and tax deferrals.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may qualify for partial or full exemptions based on disability rating, while surviving spouses of military members killed in action are also eligible.

Apply for exemptions through the MCAD by April 30.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

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

• Installment Plans: Homeowners may pay in four installments (Jan. 31, March 31, May 31, and July 31) without penalty if the first payment is made by January 31.
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes incur a 6% penalty in February, plus 1% monthly interest (up to 12%). After July, unpaid taxes may face legal action or foreclosure.
• Payment Methods: Pay online, by mail, or in person at the Morris County Tax Office. Discounts may apply for early payments.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• File a Protest: Submit a protest to the MCAD by May 15 (or 30 days after your appraisal notice, whichever is later). Include evidence like recent sales data or repair estimates.
• Informal Review: Discuss your case with an appraiser. Many disputes are resolved here.
• Formal Hearing: If unresolved, present your case to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). Bring documentation (e.g., photos, comparable listings).
• Further Appeals: If dissatisfied, you may file a lawsuit or request binding arbitration for disputes under $5 million in value.

Act promptly—deadlines are strict, and missing them forfeits your appeal rights for the year.