Did your Notice of Appraised Value land in your mailbox and feel too high? You are not alone. Protesting your property tax in Travis County is straightforward when you know the steps, deadlines, and what evidence to bring. This guide walks you through the process from filing to hearing so you can present a strong, organized case. Let’s dive in.
Know your deadline in Austin
Your filing deadline is printed on your Notice of Appraised Value. In most years, Texas uses May 15 or 30 days after the notice was mailed, whichever is later. Always follow the date on your notice. The fastest way to move forward is to use the TCAD protest portal and file early.
Quick overview of the process
1) File your protest
File online through TCAD’s eFile portal using your owner ID and PIN from the notice. You can also mail or deliver a written protest. The standard form is Comptroller Form 50-132. If you appoint an agent, use Form 50-162. Filing preserves your right to a formal hearing.
2) Try the informal conference
After you file, TCAD typically opens an informal window where you can meet with an appraiser and share your evidence. Many protests settle here. TCAD has noted that informal review windows often begin in mid-April in typical cycles, which aligns with notice mailing dates. See timing updates in TCAD’s 2025 market value update.
3) Prepare for the ARB hearing
If you do not settle informally, you will receive at least 15 days’ notice of your Appraisal Review Board hearing. The ARB is independent of the appraisal district. The chief appraiser must notify you about the evidence the district plans to use at least 14 days before the hearing. You can represent yourself, appear by affidavit in some cases, or appoint an agent. Review hearing procedures in the ARB hearing procedures manual.
What evidence works in Travis County
Bring evidence that supports your value or shows unequal appraisal. Strong items include:
- Comparable closed sales near the January 1 valuation date.
- Photos documenting condition, deferred maintenance, or defects.
- Written repair estimates or contractor invoices.
- A recent certified appraisal that meets timing and certification rules.
After you file, review the appraisal district’s evidence packet in the owner portal and prepare your rebuttal materials. The portal is available through the TCAD protest process page.
Common grounds to protest
- Incorrect market value or unequal appraisal compared to similar properties.
- Errors in the property description, such as square footage or improvements.
- Denial or removal of an exemption, including residence homestead.
- Special appraisal or qualification issues.
You can see protest topics and appeals paths in the Texas Comptroller’s protest guidance.
Step-by-step timeline
- Before filing: Read your notice, confirm your deadline, and check exemptions. Many exemption applications are due by April 30. See TCAD’s homestead and exemption information in the TCAD FAQs and the Comptroller’s exemption deadline guidance.
- File your protest: File online by the deadline on your notice. Filing preserves your right to a hearing even if you seek an informal settlement first.
- Informal window: TCAD’s informal period typically opens in mid-April in years with mid-April notices. Watch for settlement offers in the portal and read TCAD’s 2025 market value update.
- Evidence and hearing: Expect at least 15 days’ hearing notice and a 14-day evidence notification window for the district’s materials. Plan your submissions accordingly, following the ARB hearing procedures manual.
- After the decision: If the ARB reduces your value, taxing units are notified and refunds may follow if taxes were already paid. If you disagree, the Comptroller explains appeals to district court and other paths in the state protest guidance.
Avoid these mistakes
- Waiting too long and missing your deadline.
- Relying only on an informal call without filing a protest.
- Skipping the district’s evidence packet and showing up unprepared.
- Forgetting to submit copies of your evidence within required timeframes.
- Assuming the ARB will adjust your value without solid documentation.
For process details and timing rules, review TCAD’s portal instructions and the ARB hearing procedures manual.
Costs and representation
There is no fee to file a protest. You may hire an appraiser or tax consultant if you choose. You can represent yourself or appoint an agent using Form 50-162, and many owners use TCAD’s portal to manage everything online. See TCAD’s basics in the TCAD FAQs and formal requirements in the Texas Comptroller’s protest guidance.
Local resources you can use
If you prefer to handle matters in person, TCAD’s office is at 850 E. Anderson Lane. Check the TCAD site for current hours and procedures.
Need a local guide for your next move?
If your protest is part of a bigger plan to buy or sell in the Austin area, you deserve a streamlined, concierge experience. From pricing strategy to polished marketing and move-ready staging, reach out to Evie Hansen for expert guidance tailored to your timeline.
FAQs
What is the Travis County protest deadline for my home?
- Check the deadline printed on your Notice of Appraised Value; in most years it is May 15 or 30 days after the notice was mailed, whichever is later.
How do I file a property tax protest online with TCAD?
- Use the TCAD eFile portal with your owner ID and PIN from your notice, then upload evidence and track informal offers and hearing dates.
What evidence works best for a Travis County property tax protest?
- Comparable sales near January 1, clear photos of condition issues, written repair estimates, and a recent certified appraisal when appropriate.
What happens at a Travis County ARB hearing?
- You present evidence to an independent board, the appraisal district presents its case, and the ARB decides based on the evidence and standards set in state rules.
Can I appeal an ARB decision in Travis County?
- Yes, options include state district court and, in certain cases, other paths described by the Texas Comptroller.
Do I need a consultant or attorney to protest my Travis County value?
- No, many owners represent themselves; you can appoint an agent if you prefer by filing the proper form and agreeing on fees in advance.
