Protest Guide
Everything you need to know, nothing you don't.
What Is a Property Tax Protest?
Every year, your county appraisal district appraises your home's market value. That value determines your tax bill. A protest is your legal right to challenge that appraisal.
The process is free to file. Texas law prohibits raising your appraised value solely because you filed a protest.
Two Types of Evidence
Market Value (Sales Approach) — Show that comparable properties sold for less than your appraised value. Uses recent MLS sales data.
Unequal Appraisal (Equity Approach) — Show that comparable properties are appraised at less per square foot than yours. Uses the appraisal district's own records. This is the most commonly used approach.
Our evidence packet builds both types automatically.
Timeline
File by May 15 or 30 days after receiving your Notice of Appraised Value — whichever is later.
Three Ways to File
Online: File at your county appraisal district's online protest portal. Upload your evidence report as supporting documentation.
By mail: Send signed Form 50-132 to your county appraisal district. Must be postmarked by the deadline. Use certified mail for proof of filing.
In person: Deliver to your county appraisal district office during business hours.
Your protest packet includes the correct filing address and online portal URL for your county.
What Happens at the Hearing
After filing, you may be scheduled for an informal meeting with an appraiser from your county appraisal district.
- Present your comparable property evidence
- The appraiser may agree, partially agree, or counter-offer
- If you reach agreement, sign the settlement
- If not, you can proceed to a formal ARB hearing
Bring two copies of your evidence — one for you, one for the appraiser. Be polite. Stick to the data.
After the Hearing
If you settled: Your new appraised value is set and your tax bill is recalculated.
If you didn't settle: You can proceed to a formal hearing before the Appraisal Review Board (ARB), an independent citizen panel.
Your Rights
Under Texas Tax Code §41.461, you can request the evidence your appraisal district plans to use at your hearing. The district must provide it at least 14 days before. Include a written request when you file your protest.
County-Specific Information
Filing addresses, online portals, and contact details for each county:
Get Your Protest Packet
$50 for a complete evidence packet with pre-filled forms.
Montgomery, Harris, Dallas & Travis counties. $50 flat fee if you purchase a protest packet.