Q: When are property taxes due in Burnet County for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes for FY 2025-2026 are due by January 31, 2026. Taxes become delinquent on February 1, 2026, with penalties and interest applied immediately.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and do they require application?
A: The primary homestead exemption provides a $100,000 reduction in taxable value for school district taxes and must be applied for by April 30th following the year you establish homestead. Additional exemptions for over-65, disabled persons, and disabled veterans require separate applications and qualifying documentation.
Q: How does the homestead cap work?
A: The homestead cap limits annual increases in assessed value to 10% for your primary residence, regardless of market value increases. This requires filing a homestead exemption application and does not reduce your property's market value, only limits assessment growth year-over-year.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Burnet County?
A: The Burnet Central Appraisal District reassesses all properties annually as of January 1st. Property owners receive assessment notices by April and can protest values through the local appraisal review board with deadlines typically in late May.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Late payments incur a 7% penalty in February, an additional 1% per month thereafter, plus 1% annual interest. Attorney fees and court costs apply to delinquent accounts, and properties may face tax lien foreclosure after extended delinquency.
Q: Can I pay property taxes online?
A: Yes, Burnet County offers online payment options through their official website, typically accepting electronic checks and credit cards. Credit card payments may incur convenience fees of 2.5-3% of the payment amount.
Q: Do special districts affect my tax rate?
A: Yes, special districts like Emergency Services Districts (ESD), Municipal Utility Districts (MUD), and groundwater conservation districts can add 0.26-$0.63 per $100 valuation to your tax rate depending on your property's location and the services provided.
Q: What documentation do I need to apply for a homestead exemption?
A: You need a completed homestead exemption application (available from Burnet Central Appraisal District), driver's license or state ID showing the property address as your residence, and any additional documentation for special exemptions like age verification for over-65 or military discharge papers for veteran exemptions.
Q: Can I appeal my property assessment?
A: Yes, property owners can file a protest with the Burnet County Appraisal Review Board by the deadline shown on your assessment notice (typically late May). You can protest market value, unequal appraisal, or exemption denials with supporting evidence like recent sales comparisons or property condition issues.
Q: Are there exemptions for agricultural or wildlife management use?
A: Yes, properties meeting agricultural use or wildlife management qualifications can receive significant tax reductions through special-use valuations. These require annual applications, specific acreage minimums, and compliance with Texas agricultural or wildlife management practices as defined by state law.
