Q: When are property taxes due in Lamb County for the current fiscal year?
A: Property taxes are due by January 31st for the current tax year. Some taxing entities may offer split payment options with deadlines in late fall and early winter.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and how do I apply?
A: The primary homestead exemption provides a $100,000 reduction in assessed value for school district taxes on your primary residence. You must apply by May 1st with the Lamb County Appraisal District. This is not automatic and requires documentation proving the property is your primary residence.
Q: How does the homestead exemption cap work?
A: The homestead exemption limits annual assessment increases to 10% of the previous year's assessed value, regardless of market value increases. This cap protects homeowners from dramatic tax increases due to rapidly rising property values, but you must file for homestead exemption to receive this protection.
Q: Are there additional tax credits for seniors or disabled veterans?
A: Yes, residents age 65 or older receive an additional $10,000 school district exemption, and qualifying disabled veterans may be eligible for various exemptions. All require separate applications with supporting documentation submitted to the Lamb County Appraisal District.
Q: How often are properties reassessed in Lamb County?
A: Properties are reassessed annually by the Lamb County Appraisal District. Assessment notices are typically mailed in spring, and property owners have the right to appeal assessments through a formal protest process with specific deadlines.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur penalty and interest charges that begin accruing February 1st. Penalties start at 6% for the first month and increase monthly, plus 1% interest per month.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, most taxing entities in Lamb County offer online payment options through their websites or third-party payment processors. There may be convenience fees for credit card payments.
Q: Why do properties in the same county have different tax rates?
A: Total tax rates vary because different areas are served by different combinations of school districts, cities, emergency service districts, and other special purpose districts. Each entity sets its own tax rate, and your total rate is the sum of all applicable district rates.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can file a protest with the Lamb County Appraisal Review Board, typically by May 31st following the assessment notice. The protest must be filed in writing and should include evidence supporting your claim that the assessment is incorrect.
Q: What happens if I don't apply for exemptions I'm eligible for?
A: Exemptions are not retroactive and must be applied for by the May 1st deadline each year you want to claim them. Missing the deadline means you'll pay the full assessed tax amount for that year.
