Q: When are property taxes due in Dickens County?
A: Property taxes for FY 2025-2026 are due January 31, 2026. Texas uses a single annual payment system, unlike some states with multiple installments.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary benefit is the $100,000 school district homestead exemption for your primary residence, which requires a separate application. This exemption also provides a 10% annual assessment increase cap. Applications must be filed with the Dickens County Appraisal District by April 30th for the tax year.
Q: Is there additional tax relief for seniors or disabled persons?
A: Yes, Dickens County offers additional exemptions for property owners over 65 and disabled individuals. These are tax credits that require separate applications and must be filed by the April 30th deadline. Contact the appraisal district at 806-623-5258 for specific amounts and eligibility requirements.
Q: How does the 10% homestead assessment cap work?
A: If you have a homestead exemption, your property's assessed value for tax purposes cannot increase more than 10% per year, regardless of market value increases. This caps assessment growth but doesn't reduce the actual market value of your property.
Q: When does the county assess property values?
A: Property assessments are conducted annually with a January 1st assessment date. The Dickens County Appraisal District reviews all properties and sends notices of appraised value typically by April or May.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can file a protest with the Dickens County Appraisal Review Board if you disagree with your property's appraised value. The deadline for filing protests is typically May 15th or 30 days after receiving your notice of appraised value, whichever is later.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Penalty and interest charges begin accruing February 1st for taxes not paid by the January 31st deadline. Penalty rates are set by state law and compound monthly.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Dickens County Tax Assessor-Collector's office or visit the county website to verify current online payment options and any associated convenience fees.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Dickens County?
A: Different areas of the county are served by different combinations of school districts, municipal governments, and special districts (hospital, emergency services, etc.). Each entity sets its own tax rate, so your total rate depends on which services your property location receives.
Q: Do I need to reapply for exemptions every year?
A: Most exemptions, once approved, continue automatically as long as you remain eligible. However, you must notify the appraisal district if your eligibility changes (such as no longer using the property as your primary residence for homestead exemption).
