Understanding property taxes is crucial for homeowners and prospective buyers in Houston. This guide provides an overview of the current tax rates, recent changes, available exemptions, and essential deadlines to help you navigate the property tax landscape in 2025.
1. Overview of Property Tax Rates
City of Houston:
Tax Rate: For the 2024 tax year (Fiscal Year 2025), the City of Houston has maintained its property tax rate at $0.519190 per $100 of assessed value.
Harris County:
Tax Rate Increase: In September 2024, Harris County Commissioners approved an increase in the property tax rate from 3.5% to 8% for the 2025 fiscal year. For a homeowner with a property valued at $400,000, this change results in an additional $160 in annual property taxes.
2. Property Tax Exemptions
Homestead Exemption:
General Homestead: Harris County offers a 20% optional homestead exemption for all homeowners. For example, if your home is valued at $100,000, this exemption reduces its taxable value to $80,000 for county taxes.
Senior and Disabled Exemptions:
Increased Exemptions: As of May 2024, Harris County has raised property tax exemptions for senior and disabled residents by $45,000, increasing the exemption from $275,000 to $320,000. This means that qualifying homeowners can exempt up to $320,000 of their home's value from county property taxes.
Payment Plans:
Quarter Payment Plan: Homeowners aged 65 or older, those with disabilities, or surviving spouses of disabled veterans may request to pay their property taxes in four equal installments without penalty and interest. To apply, submit a written request along with a payment of at least 25% of the total amount of current taxes due.
3. Important Deadlines
January 31, 2025: This is the deadline to pay 2024 property taxes without incurring penalties and interest. It's also the last day to request a quarter payment plan and make the first payment without late fees.
April 1, 2025: Delinquent business personal property accounts are turned over for collection, with an additional penalty of 15%–20% applied to the unpaid balance.
May 1, 2025: Deadline to file a notice of protest with the Harris County Appraisal District for the 2025 tax year (or 30 days after the notice of appraisal value is delivered).
4. How to Pay Your Property Taxes
Online Payments: The Harris County Tax Office accepts full or partial payments online. E-checks are free, while credit/debit card payments incur a non-refundable surcharge of 2.45% (minimum $1.00).
In-Person Payments: Payments can be made at any Harris County Tax Office location during regular office hours.
5. Additional Resources
Harris County Tax Office: For comprehensive information on property taxes, exemptions, and payment options, visit the Harris County Tax Office website.
City of Houston Finance Department: For details on city tax rates and financial reports, refer to the City of Houston Finance Department.
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