Texas Property Tax Guide 2026
The May 15, 2026 filing window has closed. Late notices can still have 30 days from the notice date. Everything you need to know about Texas property taxes: rates, deadlines, how to protest, and exemptions that can save you money.
Key dates for Harris County
- Payment due
- January 31, 2027
- Notices mailed
- April 2026
- Protest deadline
- May 15, 2026
Tax rates
The average property tax rate in Harris County is 2.0% - 2.5%.
- School district
- ~1.0-1.3%
- County
- ~0.34%
- City
- ~0.5-0.7%
How to protest your property tax
1. Review your notice
Check your Notice of Appraised Value for errors in square footage, bedroom count, or market value.
2. File a protest
The typical deadline is May 15 or 30 days after the notice. The 2026 window is closed except for late notices. Filing is free.
3. Gather evidence
Collect comparable sales from your neighborhood and photos of any property issues that affect value.
4. Present your case
Attend your ARB hearing in person, online, or let a professional represent you.
Filing is free and risk-free. Your assessed value cannot increase as a result of protesting.
Property tax exemptions
Homestead Exemption
For your primary residence. Provides $100,000 off school taxes and a 10% cap on annual value increases.
- $100,000 exemption from school district taxes
- Up to 20% exemption from county/city taxes
- 10% annual cap on appraised value increases
Over-65 Exemption
Additional benefits for seniors 65 and older, including a school tax freeze and optional tax deferral.
- Extra $10,000+ exemption from school taxes
- School tax ceiling frozen at age 65 amount
- Optional deferral of all taxes until sale
Disabled Veteran Exemption
For veterans with a VA disability rating. Exemption amount depends on disability percentage.
- 10-69% disability: $5,000-$10,000 exemption
- 70-100% disability: $12,000+ exemption
- 100% disabled: Complete tax exemption
Apply through your county appraisal district. You only need to apply once.
Check your savings potential
Enter your address to see your current tax bill and estimate how much you could save by protesting.
Free. No account required.