Q: When are property taxes due in Erath County for the FY 2024-2025 tax year?
A: Property taxes are due January 31, 2025. Payments received after this date are subject to penalty and interest charges.
Q: What homestead exemptions are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary homestead exemption is $100,000 off your home's value for school district taxes only. Yes, you must apply with the Erath County Appraisal District. Additional exemptions are available for residents over 65, disabled veterans, and disabled persons, but all require separate applications.
Q: How does the homestead exemption cap work?
A: Texas law limits annual assessment increases to 10% for homestead properties. This means if your home's value increases more than 10% in one year, your assessed value for tax purposes can only increase by 10%. This is automatic once you have an approved homestead exemption on file.
Q: When will I receive my 2025 property tax bill?
A: Tax bills are typically mailed in October or November 2025 for taxes due January 31, 2026. If you don't receive your bill, you're still responsible for payment by the due date.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Erath County offers online payment options through their official website. Credit card and electronic check payments are typically accepted, though convenience fees may apply.
Q: What happens if I pay late?
A: Taxes paid after January 31st incur penalty and interest charges. The penalty is 6% for February, 7% for March, 8% for April, 9% for May, 10% for June, and 12% for July and beyond, plus 1% interest per month.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can protest your property value with the Erath County Appraisal Review Board. Protest forms must typically be filed by May 31st (or within 30 days of receiving your notice of appraised value, whichever is later).
Q: Why do properties in the same area have different tax rates?
A: Tax rates vary based on which special districts serve your property. Two neighboring homes might be in different school districts, emergency service districts, or municipal utility districts, resulting in different combined tax rates.
Q: Are there property tax exemptions for veterans?
A: Yes, qualifying veterans and their surviving spouses may be eligible for various exemptions, including disabled veteran exemptions and surviving spouse exemptions. Applications must be filed with the Erath County Appraisal District with required documentation.
Q: What if I disagree with a supplemental tax bill?
A: You can protest supplemental assessments just like regular assessments. Contact the Erath County Appraisal District to understand the reason for the supplemental bill and your appeal options.
