Q: When are property taxes due in Scurry County?
A: Property taxes are due January 31st for the current tax year. For Tax Year 2025, taxes are due January 31, 2025. Payment installments are available in October, November, and December if you choose to pay early.
Q: What tax exemptions are available and do I need to apply?
A: The primary exemption is the $100,000 school district homestead exemption for primary residences. Additional exemptions include over-65 exemptions and local option exemptions. ALL exemptions require application - they are not automatic. Contact the Scurry County Appraisal District to apply.
Q: How does the homestead exemption work?
A: The homestead exemption provides two benefits: it reduces your taxable value by $100,000 for school district taxes, and it caps annual assessment increases at 10%. This cap limits how much your assessed value can increase each year, but you must file for homestead designation - it's not automatic.
Q: When do I need to apply for exemptions?
A: Applications for most exemptions must be filed by April 30th of the tax year. However, you can apply for homestead exemption throughout the year. Late applications may be accepted with penalty in some circumstances.
Q: How do I appeal my property assessment?
A: You can protest your property value with the Scurry County Appraisal Review Board. Protests must typically be filed by May 15th (or 30 days after receiving your notice of appraised value). Contact the Scurry County Appraisal District for protest forms and procedures.
Q: What happens if I pay late?
A: Late payments incur penalties and interest charges starting February 1st. Penalty rates increase over time, and properties can eventually face tax liens and foreclosure for delinquent taxes.
Q: Can I pay my taxes online?
A: Yes, Scurry County typically offers online payment options. Contact the Scurry County Tax Office for current online payment methods and any associated convenience fees.
Q: Why did my tax bill increase when property values went down?
A: Tax bills depend on both property values and tax rates. Even if your property value decreased, tax rates may have increased to maintain revenue for local services. Also, loss of exemptions or changes in special district boundaries can affect your total tax bill.
Q: Do I pay different rates than my neighbor?
A: Possibly. While you both pay the same county rate, you may be in different school districts, municipal boundaries, or special taxing districts (hospital, water, etc.), which can result in different total tax rates even for similar properties.
Q: What if I disagree with my exemption being denied?
A: You can appeal exemption denials to the Scurry County Appraisal Review Board using the same protest process as value disputes. You typically have 30 days from receiving the denial notice to file your appeal.
