Q: When are Austin County property taxes due for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes are due January 31st each year. For the 2024 tax year, payment is due by January 31, 2025. Business property tax renditions must be filed by April 15th.
Q: What homestead tax relief is available and how do I apply?
A: The homestead exemption provides up to $100,000 reduction in taxable value for school district taxes and caps annual assessment increases at 10%. You must file an application with the Austin County Appraisal District by April 30th of the first year you qualify. This applies only to your primary residence.
Q: Are there additional tax credits for seniors, veterans, or disabled persons?
A: Yes, additional exemptions are available: seniors 65+ may qualify for additional exemptions and tax freezes, disabled persons can receive exemptions, and veterans or their survivors may qualify for various exemptions. Each requires a separate application with specific documentation and deadlines.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Austin County?
A: Properties are appraised annually as of January 1st. However, homestead properties benefit from a 10% cap on assessment increases, meaning your assessed value for tax purposes cannot increase more than 10% per year regardless of market value changes.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can protest your appraisal with the Austin County Appraisal Review Board. Protests must typically be filed by May 15th (or within 30 days of receiving your notice). Contact the Austin County Appraisal District at (979) 865-5911 for protest forms and procedures.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Taxes not paid by January 31st incur penalties and interest. Penalty is 6% if paid in February, 7% in March, 8% in April, 9% in May, 10% in June, and 12% in July and thereafter, plus annual interest charges.
Q: Can I pay my Austin County property taxes online?
A: Yes, most Austin County taxing entities offer online payment options. Contact your specific tax collector or visit the Austin County website for available payment methods, which typically include online payments, mail, and in-person options.
Q: Why did my tax bill increase if tax rates didn't change?
A: Tax increases typically result from rising property assessments due to increased market values, completion of new construction or improvements, or changes in exemption eligibility. Even with the homestead 10% cap, taxes can still increase if your property's assessed value rises.
Q: How do special districts like MUDs affect my tax bill?
A: Municipal Utility Districts and other special purpose districts add their own tax rates to your bill. These can range from 0.35% to over 1.0% depending on the district's debt and operational needs. Your total tax rate is the sum of all applicable taxing jurisdictions serving your property location.
Q: Do I need to reapply for exemptions each year?
A: Most exemptions, once approved, continue automatically as long as you remain eligible and the property use doesn't change. However, you must notify the appraisal district of any changes in eligibility, and some exemptions may require periodic re-verification or renewal applications.
