What Can I Do Now to Lower My 2025 Property Tax Bill?

Here’s what you need to know about potentially lowering your 2025 property tax bill:

• Don’t wait to start on your 2025 property taxes – take proactive steps now.
• Familiarize yourself with the property tax and protest timeline, especially the May 15 protest deadline.
• Review your property details with the Appraisal District, research recent comparable sales, document any property issues or needed repairs, and ensure you are receiving all eligible tax exemptions.
• Compare your Property Tax Notice of Appraised Value with your research for accuracy and file a protest, if necessary.
• The experts at Gill, Denson & Company are ready to assist you in lowering your 2025 property tax bill by protesting with the local Appraisal District.

When Should You Start On Your 2025 Property Taxes?

In Texas, smart homeowners are already thinking about their 2025 property taxes when April arrives. While the official tax bills won’t arrive until the fall, the first step in potentially lowering that burden is understanding and, if necessary, protesting your annual Property Tax Notice of Appraised Value.

Your local Appraisal District typically sends out these notices in late April or early May. Instead of waiting until your notice arrives, the most effective way to tackle your property taxes is to start planning and gathering information now. Proactive preparation can significantly increase your chances of a successful protest and ultimately save you money on your taxes.

Understanding the Timeline: Key Dates

To effectively manage your 2025 property taxes, it’s helpful to understand the general timeline:

• January 1st: This is the appraisal date – the date from which the county assesses your property’s value for the 2025 tax year.
• Late April/Early May: Expect to receive your Property Tax Notice of Appraised Value in the mail or find it available online through your county’s Appraisal District website.
• May 15 (varies by county): This is the deadline to file your protest if you disagree with the appraised value. Make sure to confirm the exact date on your notice.
• Fall: Your actual property tax bill for 2025 will be mailed out.

Proactive Steps You Can Take Now

Getting a head start before your 2025 appraisal notice or property tax bill arrives can make a significant difference. Here are some actionable steps you can take right now:

1. Review Your Property Details: Check your property information on your local Appraisal District’s website for any inaccuracies. Look at details like property address, legal description, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and other features. If you spot any inaccuracies, gather documentation to support a correction.
2. Research Comparable Sales: A common strategy in a property tax protest is to gather data on recent sales of comparable properties in your neighborhood. Research comparable sales that occurred in late 2024 and early 2025, and record the addresses, sale dates, and sale prices.
3. Document Any Property Issues or Needed Repairs: Make a note of any issues or needed repairs that could negatively impact your property’s market value. Take photos and keep any records of repair estimates.
4. Review Your Existing Exemptions: Make sure you are currently receiving all the property tax exemptions you are eligible for (Homestead, 65+, Veterans, etc.). Visit your Appraisal District’s website to review the eligibility requirements for each and ensure you have already applied if you qualify.

What to Do When Your 2025 Appraisal Notice Arrives

Once your 2025 Property Tax Notice of Appraised Value arrives, you’ll be well-prepared to evaluate its accuracy quickly. Compare the listed appraised value to the market research you’ve already done. If the appraised value seems too high, the documentation and research you’ve gathered are the foundation for your protest.

Don’t miss the protest deadline, typically around May 15, and be ready to take action if you disagree with the valuation. You’ll have options for protesting with the Appraisal District, including informal and formal hearings.

We Can Assist You With Your 2025 Property Tax Bill Now

While being proactive is beneficial, navigating the property tax bill and protest process can still be complex. That’s where Gill, Denson & Company can provide invaluable assistance. We’ll help you:

• Analyze comparable sales data to determine a realistic market value for your property.
• Identify potential issues with your property’s assessment based on our extensive experience.
• Ensure you are claiming all eligible property tax exemptions, potentially saving you money even before a protest.
• Develop a comprehensive and effective protest strategy tailored to your specific property before the protest deadline arrives.

By getting started early with Gill, Denson & Company, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that experienced professionals are on your side. We’ll help you build the strongest possible case for a fair and accurate property tax assessment.

Don’t wait until your 2025 property tax bill arrives to think about saving money. Take these proactive steps now, and consider working with experts like our team at Gill, Denson & Company. Get started today and ensure you only pay your fair share of the property taxes.