Rate Breakdown

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

How Property Tax Works in Travis County

Property taxes in Travis County are based on the assessed value of your property, determined annually by the Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD). The process involves:

• Assessment: TCAD evaluates your property's market value as of January 1 each year. You receive a notice in April or May with this valuation.
• Tax Rates: Local taxing entities (e.g., county, school districts, cities) set millage rates (tax rates per $100 of assessed value). Your total tax bill combines these rates.
• Calculation: Taxes owed = (Assessed Value - Exemptions) × (Total Tax Rate / 100). For example, a $400,000 home with a $40,000 homestead exemption and a 2.1% tax rate would owe $7,560 annually.

Available Exemptions

Texas offers several property tax exemptions to reduce taxable value. Key exemptions in Travis County include:

• Homestead Exemption: Primary residents may deduct $40,000 from their home's assessed value (school taxes) and up to 20% of the value (county taxes). Apply by April 30.
• Senior Citizen Exemption: Homeowners aged 65+ qualify for an additional $10,000 homestead exemption and tax freezes for school districts. Some counties offer further deductions.
• Disability Exemption: Disabled homeowners receive similar benefits to seniors, including potential school tax freezes.
• Veteran Exemptions: Disabled veterans may qualify for partial or full exemptions based on disability rating. Surviving spouses of veterans killed in action also qualify.

Submit exemption applications to TCAD with proof of eligibility (e.g., ID, disability documentation).

Payment Schedule & Deadlines

Travis County property taxes are due annually, with the following key dates:

• Bill Issuance: Tax bills are mailed in October. Payments are due by January 31 of the following year.
• Installment Plan: Homeowners aged 65+ or with disabilities may pay in four installments (Jan. 31, March 31, May 31, and July 31) without penalty.
• Late Payments: Delinquent taxes incur a 6% penalty in February, plus 1% monthly interest (up to 12%). After July 1, unpaid taxes may face legal action or foreclosure.

Pay online, by mail, or in person at the Travis County Tax Office. Partial payments are accepted but must cover all taxing entities.

Appealing Your Assessment

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

• File a Protest: Submit a protest to TCAD by May 15 (or 30 days after your valuation notice, whichever is later). Forms are available online or at TCAD offices.
• Evidence: Gather proof (e.g., recent sales of comparable properties, repair estimates, or appraisal reports) to support your claim.
• Hearings: TCAD may offer an informal review. If unresolved, a formal Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing will be scheduled.
• Outcome: If dissatisfied with the ARB's decision, you may file a lawsuit or request binding arbitration (for properties under $5M in value).

Note: Deadlines are strict. Consult TCAD’s website or a tax professional for detailed guidance.