How to Appeal Your Property Tax Assessment

Did your Bell County property tax bill just arrive, and you’re wondering if it’s accurate? You’re not alone. Many homeowners unknowingly overpay on their property taxes due to incorrect assessments. The good news? If your home’s assessed value seems too high, you have the right to appeal, potentially saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how property taxes are assessed in Bell County, why your bill might be too high, and how to file an appeal if necessary.

How Are Property Taxes Assessed in Bell County?

In Bell County, property taxes are based on the assessed value of your home, determined annually by the Bell County Appraisal District (BCAD). This value is typically calculated using:

• Market value: The price your property would sell for under normal conditions.
• Property characteristics: Details such as square footage, acreage, and additional features such as a pool or shop.
• Comparable sales: Recent sales of similar properties in your area.

Your property tax bill is determined by multiplying your home’s assessed value by the local tax rate. If your assessment is higher than your home’s actual market value, you may be paying more than you should.

Why Your Property Tax Assessment Might Be Wrong

It’s common for property assessments to contain errors. Some of the most frequent reasons include:

• Unfair comparisons: Your home may have been compared to more expensive properties rather than homes similar to yours.
• Market fluctuations: Home values change, and if your assessment hasn’t been updated, it may not reflect recent market downturns.
• Outdated or incorrect property details: Your home’s square footage, amenities, or lot size may be listed incorrectly.
• Damage or needed repairs: If your home has structural issues or needs major repairs, its assessed value might be too high.

If any of these issues apply to you, filing an appeal could lower your tax bill.

How to Appeal Your Property Tax Assessment in Bell County

If you believe your property tax assessment is too high, follow these steps to challenge it:

1. Review your assessment notice

Carefully check the details about your home to ensure they’re accurate. Look for errors in square footage, acreage and amenities, and property condition.

2. Research comparable properties

Check recent home sales in your neighborhood to see how your assessment compares. If similar homes are valued lower than yours, you may have a case for an appeal. You can request a free market valuation from us if you need help finding market data.

3. Gather evidence

If you spot discrepancies, you’ll need evidence to support your case. This could include:

• A recent appraisal: An independent professional assessment of your property’s value.
• Photographs: Images highlighting any damage or areas needing repair.
• Sales records: Documentation of recent sales of similar properties with lower assessments.

4. File a Notice of Protest

In Bell County, you must file a “Notice of Protest” with BCAD, typically by May 15^th or within 30 days of receiving your assessment notice, whichever is later. You can file your protest online through the BCAD Online Protest Portal. Follow the instructions in BCAD’s Online Appeals E-File User Guide.

5. Wait for word from BCAD

After filing your protest, BCAD will upload their evidence to your portal, or provide you with a “settlement offer,” which you can accept or reject. This step can sometimes lead to a resolution without a formal hearing.

6. Prepare for the Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing

If the settlement offer doesn’t resolve the issue, you can schedule a hearing before the ARB, an independent panel that listens to evidence from both the homeowner and the appraisal district. Prepare to present your evidence clearly and concisely. The ARB will make a determination on the appropriate assessed value with you present.

7. Receive Notice of New Value

After the hearing, the ARB will send you a written notice of its decision. If your appeal is successful, your tax bill will be adjusted accordingly. If denied, you may have further appeal options, such as binding arbitration or a lawsuit in district court.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you need help gathering market data to support your case, we can assist you. Many homeowners don’t realize this is a service we provide, which can be key evidence in your appeal.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Overpay on Property Taxes!

Property taxes can be a major expense, but you shouldn’t have to pay more than your fair share. Reviewing your assessment each year and knowing how to appeal can save you money.

Want to know if your home is fairly assessed? Call us at (254) 947-5050 or request a valuation via our website — it could mean real savings for you.