Bexar County, Texas Property Taxes

In Bexar County, the property tax protest process provides homeowners an opportunity to contest their property tax assessments if they believe they are inaccurate. Homeowners can initiate an appeal by filing a protest with the Bexar Appraisal District. The process begins with submitting a written notice of protest, typically by May 15th or within 30 days of receiving the assessment notice, whichever is later. Once the protest is filed, the homeowner may engage in an informal meeting with an appraiser to discuss their concerns and present evidence supporting their claim, such as recent sales data of comparable properties or evidence of discrepancies in the assessment.

If the informal meeting does not yield a satisfactory outcome, the next step involves a formal hearing before the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). This board is an independent entity that listens to both the homeowner's and the appraisal district's evidence before making a decision. The ARB hearing is a critical stage where homeowners have the chance to present their case more formally.

Potential outcomes of the protest process include a reduction in the assessed value, which could lead to a lower tax bill, or the original assessment being upheld if the evidence does not support a change. Navigating this process can be complex, and that's where Ownwell can assist. With expertise in property tax appeals, Ownwell helps homeowners compile compelling evidence, prepare for hearings, and represent them throughout the process, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. By leveraging Ownwell's services, homeowners can ensure a more efficient and effective appeal process, potentially saving them money on their property taxes.

Bexar County offers several property tax exemption programs designed to ease the financial burden on homeowners. One of the primary exemptions available is the Homestead Exemption, which is specifically for primary residences. To qualify, the property must be the homeowner's principal place of residence as of January 1st of the tax year. This exemption reduces the taxable value of the home, thus lowering the property tax bill.

Another valuable exemption is the Over-65 Exemption, which provides additional tax relief for senior citizens. Homeowners aged 65 or older can benefit from a reduction in their home's assessed value, offering significant savings. Similarly, the Disability Exemption is available for homeowners with qualifying disabilities, providing them with financial relief by reducing their property tax liability.

Veterans may also qualify for exemptions, with the Disabled Veteran Exemption offering different levels of tax relief based on the severity of the disability.

Applying for these exemptions typically involves submitting the appropriate forms to the Bexar County Appraisal District, along with any required documentation to prove eligibility. Ownwell can assist homeowners in navigating this process by ensuring all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted on time. With Ownwell's expertise, homeowners can maximize their savings and take full advantage of the available exemption programs.