Q: When are property taxes due in Lampasas County for the current tax year?
A: Property taxes for FY 2025-2026 are due by January 31, 2026. Texas operates on a single annual payment system with this deadline applying to all taxing jurisdictions within the county.
Q: What homestead tax credits are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary homestead exemption provides up to $100,000 reduction in assessed value for school district taxes on your primary residence. This requires an initial application to the Lampasas Central Appraisal District and must be filed by April 30th following the tax year when you first qualify.
Q: How does the homestead exemption cap work on assessment increases?
A: Texas homestead properties are subject to a 10% annual cap on assessment increases for tax purposes. This means your home's assessed value for taxes cannot increase more than 10% per year, even if market value rises more. This cap is automatic for qualified homestead properties but the homestead exemption itself requires application.
Q: What other tax credits might I qualify for?
A: Over-65 homeowners may qualify for additional exemptions from each taxing jurisdiction (amounts vary by district). Disabled veterans may qualify for exemptions based on their disability rating. Agricultural use valuation is available for qualifying farm and ranch properties. All of these require separate applications with specific deadlines.
Q: How can I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can file a protest with the Lampasas Appraisal Review Board if you believe your property is overvalued. Protests must typically be filed by May 31st (or within 30 days of receiving your notice of appraised value). Contact the Lampasas Central Appraisal District for protest forms and procedures.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur penalties starting February 1st: 6% in February, 7% in March, 8% in April, 9% in May, and 10% in June. Additional interest charges of 1% per month also apply. After June, properties may be subject to tax lien proceedings.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Contact the Lampasas County Tax Assessor-Collector's office at (512) 556-8271 to inquire about online payment options and accepted payment methods for the current tax year.
Q: Why do properties in the same area have different tax rates?
A: Tax rates vary based on special taxing districts that serve your property, such as school districts, hospital districts, emergency services districts, and municipal utility districts. Two properties across the street from each other might be in different special districts, resulting in different total tax rates.
