Q: When are property taxes due in Brazos County for FY 2025?
A: Property taxes are due by January 31, 2025. Taxes become delinquent on February 1st and begin accruing penalties and interest.
Q: What homestead exemptions are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary homestead exemption provides $100,000 off your home's value for school district taxes, plus smaller exemptions for county and other taxing entities. You must file an application with the Brazos County Appraisal District by April 30th following the tax year when you first qualify.
Q: How does the homestead 10% assessment cap work?
A: Texas law limits annual increases in your homestead's assessed value to 10% per year, regardless of market value increases. This cap requires filing a homestead exemption application and only applies to your primary residence.
Q: What additional exemptions are available for seniors?
A: Property owners 65 and older can receive additional exemptions (typically $10,000 for school districts, $3,000 for county) and may qualify for tax ceiling freezes. Applications must be filed with the appraisal district by April 30th.
Q: Can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Yes, you can protest your property value with the Brazos County Appraisal Review Board. Protests must typically be filed by May 15th (or within 30 days of receiving your notice of appraised value).
Q: What penalties apply to late tax payments?
A: Delinquent taxes incur a 6% penalty in February, 7% in March, 8% in April, 9% in May, 10% in June, and 12% in July and thereafter, plus 1% interest monthly.
Q: How can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Brazos County offers online payment options through their official website. You can pay by e-check or credit card, though credit card payments may include convenience fees.
Q: Do special districts affect my tax rate?
A: Yes, significantly. Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs), Emergency Services Districts, and other special purpose districts can add $0.30-$0.75 per $100 of value to your total tax rate, depending on your property's location.
Q: What happens if I buy a home mid-year?
A: Property taxes are typically prorated at closing based on the closing date. You may receive supplemental tax bills if the property's assessed value changes due to the ownership transfer or improvements.
Q: Are exemptions automatic once approved?
A: Most exemptions continue automatically once approved, but you must notify the appraisal district if you become ineligible (such as no longer using the property as your primary residence for homestead exemptions).
