Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Refugio County

Property taxes in Refugio County are based on the assessed value of your property and the combined tax rates (millage rates) set by local taxing entities. Here’s how the process works:

• Assessment: The Refugio County Appraisal District (RCAD) determines the market value of your property annually. Appraisers consider factors like location, size, and recent sales of comparable properties.
• Tax Rates: Taxing entities, such as the county, school districts, and municipalities, set their own rates. These rates are applied to your assessed value (minus exemptions) to calculate your tax bill.
• Calculation: Your tax due = (Assessed Value - Exemptions) × (Total Tax Rate / 100). For example, a $200,000 home with a $50,000 homestead exemption and a 2% tax rate would owe $3,000 annually.

Available Exemptions

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

• Homestead Exemption: Available to primary residences, this exemption reduces your home’s taxable value by a portion (e.g., $40,000 for school taxes). Apply with the RCAD.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65+ qualify for additional school tax exemptions and may defer taxes until the property changes ownership.
• Disability Exemption: Disabled homeowners may receive exemptions similar to seniors, with additional benefits depending on the disability rating.
• Veteran Exemptions: Veterans with a disability rating of 10% or higher may qualify for partial or full exemptions. Surviving spouses of veterans killed in action may also be eligible.

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Refugio County property taxes are typically due by January 31 of the following year. Key details:

• Payment Options: Taxes can be paid in full or in installments (if eligible). Installment plans require an initial payment by January 31, with subsequent payments due by March 31, May 31, and July 31.
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes accrue penalties (up to 12%) and interest (1% per month). After July 31, unpaid taxes may face legal action or foreclosure.
• Payment Methods: Pay online, by mail, or in person at the Refugio County Tax Office. Check the county website for accepted payment types.

Appealing Your Assessment

If you believe your property is overvalued, you can appeal to the RCAD:

• Deadline: File a protest by May 15 or within 30 days of receiving your appraisal notice (whichever is later).
• Process: Submit evidence (e.g., recent sales of comparable properties, repair estimates) to support your claim. Informal reviews with an appraiser are encouraged first.
• Formal Hearing: If unresolved, a formal hearing with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB) will be scheduled. Present your case, and the ARB will issue a decision.
• Further Appeals: Dissatisfied homeowners may pursue binding arbitration or district court litigation.