Q: When are property taxes due for FY 2025-2026?
A: Property taxes are due January 31st. Late payments after January 31st incur penalty and interest charges that accumulate monthly.
Q: What homestead exemption benefits are available and how do I apply?
A: The primary benefit is a $100,000 reduction in taxable value for school district taxes, plus a 10% annual cap on assessment increases. You must apply with the DeWitt County Appraisal District by April 30th of the first year you want the exemption. It's not automatic.
Q: Are there additional tax credits for seniors or disabled veterans?
A: Yes, property owners over 65 may qualify for additional school district exemptions, and disabled veterans may qualify for exemptions based on their disability rating. All require separate applications with documentation and have April 30th deadlines.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in DeWitt County?
A: Properties are assessed annually by the DeWitt County Appraisal District. However, homestead properties have their taxable value increases capped at 10% per year, even if market value increases more.
Q: Can I appeal my property assessment and what's the deadline?
A: Yes, you can file a protest with the DeWitt County Appraisal Review Board. The deadline is typically May 15th or 30 days after you receive your notice of appraised value, whichever is later.
Q: What happens if I pay my property taxes late?
A: Late payments incur a penalty of 6% 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: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, the DeWitt County Tax Assessor-Collector typically offers online payment options through their official website. Check their site for accepted payment methods and any convenience fees.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within DeWitt County?
A: Different areas are served by different combinations of school districts, cities, emergency services districts, hospital districts, and utility districts. Each entity sets its own tax rate, so your total rate depends on which districts serve your specific location.
Q: How do special district taxes work?
A: Special districts provide specific services like fire protection, hospital services, or water/sewer services to defined geographic areas. If your property is within a special district's boundaries, you pay their tax in addition to county, school, and city taxes. These rates are set independently by each district's board.
