💸 How to Lower Your Property Taxes in Austin: Exemptions, Protests & Pro Tips

If you've opened your property tax bill in Austin lately and felt your heart skip a beat—you’re not alone. As home values rise across Central Texas, property taxes have followed suit. But here’s the good news: there are smart, legal ways to lower your bill—and we're about to walk you through them.

Whether you're a homeowner, investor, or thinking about buying, here's your go-to guide to keeping more money in your pocket.

🏠 Step 1: Apply for Property Tax Exemptions

The easiest way to reduce your tax bill is by claiming exemptions you're entitled to. These aren't loopholes—they're built into Texas law to give homeowners a break.

The Most Common Exemptions in Austin:

• Homestead Exemption
  If you live in the home as your primary residence, you can knock up to 20% off your home's taxable value(depending on your taxing district).

• Over 65 or Disabled Exemption
  Seniors and those with disabilities may qualify for additional reductions and a tax ceiling, meaning your school taxes won’t go up even if your home’s value does.

• Veterans Exemptions
  Disabled veterans may qualify for partial or even total exemptions, based on the percentage of disability.

🔎 Pro Tip: Check out Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD) to apply and see if you qualify.

📣 Step 2: Protest Your Property Appraisal

Even with exemptions, if the county overvalues your home, you're still paying too much. That’s where a property tax protest comes in.

How to Protest:

1. File Online – You can protest through TCAD’s online portal (usually open from April to mid-May).

2. Use Comparable Sales – Gather sales data of similar homes in your area that sold for less.

3. Highlight Property Issues – Is your roof aging or your foundation cracked? Document it! Physical issues can lower your appraised value.

4. Consider Hiring a Pro – Tax protest firms work on contingency (you only pay if they save you money).

📌 Remember: You’re not fighting your taxes—you’re challenging the valuation. Keep it factual and friendly.

💼 Step 3: Know These Insider Tips

• Double-Check Your Appraisal
  Mistakes happen! Wrong square footage? Garage counted as a room? Fix it ASAP.

• Track Your Neighbors’ Values
  If homes around you are appraised lower, use that as evidence in your protest.

• Watch for New Construction
  Nearby new builds can inflate values—but you can argue they’re not true comps if they’re newer or larger.

• Cap It with the Homestead “10% Rule”
  If you have a homestead exemption, your appraised value can’t rise more than 10% per year—even if the market’s jumping faster.

✍️ Final Thoughts

Property taxes in Austin can be hefty, but you’re not powerless. With the right mix of exemptions, a solid protest strategy, and a little local know-how, you can seriously lower your bill and protect your investment.

📞 Need help navigating your options or finding a property that fits your budget? I’m here to help! Let’s chat and find you a home that works and makes financial sense.