Why Are Property Taxes So High in Texas — and Can I Protest Them?

If you’ve opened your property tax appraisal notice and felt your jaw drop, you’re not alone. Texans across the state are asking the same question every year:

“Why are property taxes so high — and what can I do about it?”

Let’s break down why Texas property taxes seem to climb year after year — and what you can do to make sure you’re not paying more than you should.

💡 Why Texas Property Taxes Feel So High

Texas is one of the few states that does not have a state income tax. That might sound great — and it is — but it also means local governments rely heavily on property taxes to fund schools, police, roads, fire departments, and other public services.

Each year, county appraisal districts determine your property’s assessed value, which directly affects how much tax you owe. When property values rise — even if you haven’t made any changes to your home — your taxes can increase right along with them.

🧾 How Property Taxes Are Calculated

Your property tax bill is based on two main factors:

1. Your property’s appraised value, determined by your county appraisal district

2. The local tax rates, set by your city, county, and school districts

These rates are combined to determine your total annual tax.

If your home’s appraised value goes up but local rates stay the same, your tax bill still increases.

⚖️ Can You Protest Your Property Taxes?

Yes — and you absolutely should if your appraisal seems inaccurate.

Each year, Texas homeowners have the right to protest their property valuation. The deadline is usually May 15 or 30 days after you receive your appraisal notice, whichever comes later.

You can file your protest online or in person with your County Appraisal District (CAD).

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your notice of appraised value

• Recent comparable sales (comps) in your neighborhood

• Evidence of property defects or needed repairs

• Photos, inspection reports, or documentation showing lower value

After filing, you’ll attend an Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing to present your case.

🧠 Tips for a Strong Protest

• Do your homework. Research comparable home sales in your area.

• Be specific. General complaints (“my taxes are too high”) won’t work — focus on the facts.

• Be polite but persistent. The process can take time, but many homeowners see meaningful reductions.

  
  

If you have questions about your property taxes or need help protesting them we can assist, we’re here to help.

Can I protest property taxes in Texas?

📞 Contact us at 210-909-0123 or visit www.walterlawtx.com to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Property Taxes in San Antonio & Bexar County

Why are property taxes so high in Texas?

Property taxes in San Antonio and Bexar County are often higher because Texas does not have a state income tax. Local governments rely heavily on property taxes to fund schools, infrastructure, and public services.

How are property taxes calculated in Bexar County?

Property taxes in Bexar County are based on the appraised value of your property as determined by the appraisal district, multiplied by the tax rates set by local entities such as schools, the city, and the county.

Can I protest my property taxes in San Antonio?

Yes. Property owners in San Antonio and Bexar County have the right to protest their property tax valuation each year if they believe it is too high or inaccurate.

How do I protest my property taxes in Bexar County?

To protest your property taxes in Bexar County, you must file a protest with the appraisal district, typically by the deadline listed on your notice. This may involve submitting evidence, attending a hearing, or negotiating a value adjustment.

When is the deadline to protest property taxes in Texas?

In most cases, the deadline for property tax protests in San Antonio and throughout Texas is May 15 or 30 days after the appraisal notice is delivered, whichever is later.

What evidence helps reduce property taxes in San Antonio?

Helpful evidence in Bexar County may include comparable property sales, photographs of property condition issues, repair estimates, or any documentation showing the property is overvalued.

What happens if I don’t protest my property taxes?

If you do not protest in San Antonio, you will generally be required to pay the assessed amount for that year, even if the valuation seems too high.

Should I hire a professional to help with a property tax protest?

While some homeowners in Bexar County handle protests on their own, others choose to work with professionals or attorneys to help present evidence and navigate the process effectively.

Working with a real estate attorney in San Antonio can help…