How Can I Avoid High Property Taxes in Texas?

Taxpayer is checking documents to avoid high property taxes in Texas

Texas is known for having no state income tax, but that benefit often comes with a trade-off: relatively high property taxes. However, there are effective ways for homeowners to reduce their tax burden. If you're looking to avoid paying more than necessary, understanding available exemptions and knowing how to challenge your property valuation are key strategies.

Apply for the Homestead Exemption

The homestead exemption is the most common way Texas homeowners lower their property taxes. If your home is your primary residence, you can apply for this exemption through your County Appraisal District (CAD).

Starting in 2023, Texas offers a $100,000 school district exemption for homesteads, reducing the taxable value of your property. This can translate into significant savings, especially when combined with other local exemptions.

Additional Benefits:

  • Protects against excessive value increases through the 10% appraisal cap

  • Available only for owner-occupied residences

  • You only need to apply once unless your ownership or property status changes

Explore Additional Exemptions

Beyond the general homestead exemption, Texas offers special exemptions for:

  • Seniors (age 65+)

  • Disabled individuals

  • Disabled veterans and their surviving spouses

  • Surviving spouses of first responders killed in the line of duty

These exemptions can reduce your tax liability even further—sometimes eliminating property taxes altogether for qualified individuals.

Protest Your Property Valuation

One of the most effective yet underused strategies is to appeal your property valuation if you believe it’s been assessed too high.

Here’s how:

  • Review your appraisal notice sent annually by your CAD

  • Gather evidence (comparable sales, repair needs, etc.)

  • File a formal protest by the May 15 deadline (or 30 days after your appraisal notice is delivered)

Many successful protests result in lower appraised values, which reduce the amount you owe.

Final Tip

Always keep an eye on your appraisal each year and stay informed about exemptions and deadlines. A proactive approach can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually.

Reach out to Dimov Partners today to learn how to avoid high property taxes in Texas with exemptions, protests, and smart tax-saving strategies.

George Dimov