Q: When are property taxes due in Wilson County for the current tax year?
A: For Tax Year 2025, property taxes can be paid in four installments: 1st payment due January 31st, 2nd payment due April 30th, 3rd payment due July 31st, and 4th payment due October 31st. You may also prepay at any time starting October 1st.
Q: What homestead exemption am I eligible for and how do I apply?
A: Texas offers a $100,000 school district homestead exemption for your primary residence effective 2023. You must apply with the Wilson County Appraisal District by April 30th of the tax year. This exemption reduces your taxable value and caps annual assessment increases at 10%. Application is required and not automatic.
Q: What other tax exemptions are available and do they require applications?
A: Additional exemptions include over-65 exemptions, disability exemptions, veteran exemptions, and agricultural/timber exemptions. All exemptions require separate applications filed with the Wilson County Appraisal District by April 30th deadline. Contact the appraisal district for specific eligibility requirements and application forms.
Q: How does the 10% homestead cap work?
A: The homestead cap limits annual increases in your home's assessed value to 10% per year, not including new improvements. This caps assessment growth but doesn't reduce the market value. The cap applies automatically once you receive homestead exemption approval but requires the initial homestead application.
Q: When will I receive my property tax assessment and how can I appeal?
A: Assessment notices are typically mailed in April-May. You have until May 31st (or within 30 days of receiving the notice) to file a protest with the Wilson County Appraisal Review Board. Appeals must be filed in writing and should include evidence supporting your property value claim.
Q: What are the penalties for late property tax payments?
A: Late payments incur penalties and interest charges. Payments received after January 31st are subject to penalty fees of 6% in February, 7% in March, 8% in April, 9% in May, 10% in June, and 12% beginning in July, plus annual interest of 1% per month.
Q: Can I pay my property taxes online?
A: Yes, Wilson County accepts online property tax payments through their official website. You can pay by electronic check or credit card, though credit card payments may include processing fees. The county also accepts payments by mail, phone, or in person at the tax office.
Q: Why do property tax rates vary within Wilson County?
A: Your total tax rate depends on which taxing jurisdictions serve your specific property location. These may include different school districts, cities, municipal utility districts, emergency services districts, and other special districts. Each jurisdiction sets its own tax rate, resulting in varying total effective rates throughout the county.
