Q: When are Howard County property taxes due for 2025?
A: Based on current information, the first installment is due October 31st, second installment by May 31st, and final payment by September 30th. Contact the Howard County Tax Assessor-Collector to confirm current year due dates.
Q: What homestead benefits are available and how do I apply?
A: The primary homestead exemption provides $100,000 off your home's assessed value for school district taxes only, plus a 10% annual assessment increase cap. You must file an application with the Howard County Appraisal District by April 30th following the tax year when you establish homestead. This is NOT automatic.
Q: Are there other tax exemptions available?
A: Yes, including senior citizen exemptions (65+), disability exemptions, veteran exemptions, and agricultural/timber exemptions. Each requires a separate application with specific documentation and deadlines. Contact the Howard County Appraisal District for complete details and applications.
Q: How does the 10% homestead assessment cap work?
A: If you have a qualified homestead, your property's assessed value for tax purposes cannot increase more than 10% per year, even if market value rises more. This caps your assessment growth but doesn't reduce the actual market value.
Q: When will I receive my 2025 tax bill?
A: Tax statements are typically mailed in late summer/early fall. The Howard County Appraisal District must provide notice of appraised values by May 1st, with final tax bills following after all taxing entities set their rates.
Q: What are the penalties for late payment?
A: Texas law allows penalties and interest on delinquent property taxes. Penalties typically start at 6% for the first month late, plus additional penalties and interest charges that accrue monthly.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Howard County Tax Assessor-Collector's office for current online payment options and any associated convenience fees.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can protest your property value with the Howard County Appraisal Review Board. Protests must typically be filed by May 15th (or 30 days after receiving your notice). Contact the Howard County Appraisal District for protest forms and procedures.
Q: Why did Howard County's tax rate increase 36.50% for 2025?
A: The county adopted the no-new-revenue rate of $0.301711 per $100, which maintains the same revenue level as 2024 but required a higher rate due to various factors affecting the tax base. The voter-approval rate ceiling is $0.333675 per $100.
Q: Do special districts affect my tax rate?
A: Yes, your total property tax includes rates from all applicable taxing entities in your location, including hospital districts, emergency services districts, water districts, and other special purpose districts. These vary significantly by location within Howard County.
