Don’t Forget Your Texas BPP Rendition: What Business Property Owners Must File by April 15

Here’s what you need to know about the Texas BPP rendition filing:

• Texas business owners must file a BPP rendition annually by April 15, even if their taxable value is under the new $125,000 exemption threshold.
• Gather supporting documents, use the correct rendition form (or statement), and submit everything to your local CAD by the deadline.
• Filing accurately and on time helps avoid penalties, incorrect county valuations, and loss of exemption status.
• Gill, Denson & Company can assist with BPP filings, valuation protests, and maximizing your property tax savings.
• For more on what BPP is and why professional help matters, see our previous posts What is Business Personal Property (BPP)? and Hire a Professional to File Your Texas BPP Rendition.

What Is a Business Personal Property Rendition and Why File It?

A Texas Business Personal Property (BPP) rendition is a statement you must file with your county appraisal district (CAD) that lists the tangible personal property your business owns and uses to generate income as of January 1 each year. This includes equipment, furniture, business vehicles, inventory, and more. Intangibles, such as software on a computer, do not count as BPP. 

A new exemption introduced by recent legislation exempts up to $125,000 of BPP from property taxes for each business location. Previously, the exemption only applied to valuations under $2,500, so this is a significant increase in savings. If your BPP is under $125,000, you must still file an exemption “statement” with your local CAD, which is less intensive than a full rendition (HB9).

Failing to file can result in the county estimating your property value, often higher than reality, and imposing taxes plus a 10% penalty. Additionally, you will not receive the exemption if you do not file, even if you are eligible.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Texas BPP Rendition in 2026

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Collect detailed records of your tangible personal property as of January 1 of the current tax year, including purchase dates, costs, and descriptions.

Step 2: Use the Correct Rendition Form

You can file using the Texas Comptroller’s official rendition form or a custom form provided by your county appraisal district. Ensure you include a “good faith” estimate of the market value of your property. If your BPP is under $125,000, you need only file an exemption “statement” certifying your value and that you will not be filing a rendition.

Step 3: File by April 15, 2026

Submit your rendition or exemption statement letter to your county appraisal district by the April 15 deadline. Larger counties often allow online submissions, while smaller counties may require mailing the form (certified mail is recommended). 

Step 4: Claim the $125,000 Exemption

Whether all or part of your BPP value meets the $125,000 threshold, make sure to indicate this on your rendition to claim the exemption and avoid paying property taxes for that amount.

Step 5: Keep Copies and Documentation

Always keep copies of your filed rendition and supporting documents for your records and potential future protests.

For more tips on filing correctly and avoiding costly mistakes, consider hiring a professional to assist you with filing your Texas BPP rendition.

An Important Note About the Exemption “Statement”

It’s especially important to note that the CAD will assess the BPP value they deem fit for your property based on their data and previous inspections. Even if you only submit a statement that your total assets are under $125,000, it’s best to have all the info on hand to prove your lower valuation, if needed.

The “short certification” or “statement” is vague. We advise our clients to treat this with caution as we learn how the districts interpret this new exemption.

What Happens After You File?

After you submit your rendition or “no filing needed” statement, the county appraisal district reviews it. If they disagree with your valuation or you fail to file correctly, they may assign their own value, which can be higher than market value.

If you receive a higher valuation, you have the right to protest with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB) by May 15 (Tax Code 41.44). This process can be complex, so getting professional help is highly recommended.

If you are simply filing a statement that no rendition is owed, this will remain on file for future years. You will not need to file this statement again each year unless your BPP value exceeds $125,000. In that case, you would file a full BPP rendition.

How Gill, Denson & Company Can Help You

Navigating BPP rendition filings and protests can be confusing and time-consuming. Gill, Denson & Company offers expert assistance to:

• Accurately prepare and file your rendition by the deadline
• Identify taxable vs. non-taxable property to minimize your tax burden
• Help you claim the new $125,000 exemption properly
• Represent you in protests if you disagree with the county’s valuation

Our team’s goal is to reduce your property tax liability while keeping you compliant and penalty-free. Contact us early to ensure your filing is done right and that you don’t miss the filing or protest deadline.

Filing your Texas BPP rendition by April 15, 2026, is a critical obligation for all business owners, even if your taxable property value is under the $125,000 tax exemption. Proper filing protects you from penalties and overvaluation.

Reach out to the property tax experts at Gill, Denson & Company today for clear guidance and peace of mind during your BPP rendition filing.