Protest your Austin property tax appraisal

Short answer

You protest through the Travis Central Appraisal District, online or by mail, by the deadline on your notice (usually May 15 or 30 days after the notice date). Comparable sales and condition photos carry the case.

Who this is for

Property owners in Travis County whose appraised value jumped or looks wrong next to similar homes.

The steps, in order

1. Read the notice date and find your protest deadline.
2. Pull the appraisal record and check it for wrong square footage, beds, or condition.
3. Gather three to five comparable sales near you and dated photos of any damage or wear.
4. File the protest with TCAD before the deadline and keep the confirmation.
5. Review the informal offer; accept it or continue to the formal hearing.

Have this ready

• The property account number from the notice
• Comparable sales or a recent sale price
• Dated photos of condition issues
• Any repair estimates

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the deadline while gathering evidence; file first, then add evidence.
• Arguing the tax rate instead of the appraised value; the protest is about value.

Common questions

What is the Travis County protest deadline?

Usually May 15 or 30 days after the appraisal notice date, whichever is later. The notice itself lists the exact date.

Does protesting cost money?

No. Filing a protest with the appraisal district is free.

Official source

• Travis Central Appraisal District protests

Checked August 26, 2026. Recheck the official page monthly and when the official page changes.

Related

• How to protest a Travis County appraisal
• Austin property tax exemptions
• Austin property tax help and assistance: who handles what