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How to Protest Property Taxes in Harris County (Houston) 2025

Guide
Nov 28, 2025

Harris County has one of the most active property tax protest systems in Texas—with 85-95% of informal hearings resulting in reductions. This comprehensive guide covers 2025 deadlines, how to file with HCAD, what evidence to bring, and what to expect at your hearings.

How to Protest Property Taxes in Harris County (Houston) 2025

Key Takeaways:

  • 85-95% success rate at informal hearings
  • 74-77% success rate at ARB hearings
  • Average savings: $500-$1,100 per successful protest
  • Deadline: May 15, 2025 (or 30 days after notice)
  • File online at hcad.org via iFile
  • Harris County Protest Success Rates

    • 85-95% of informal hearings result in reduction
    • 74-77% of ARB cases get reductions
    • Average savings: $500-$1,100

    Key Dates 2025

    • Notices mailed: Mid-April
    • Deadline: May 15 (or 30 days after notice)
    • Informal hearings: May-August
    • ARB hearings: June-October

    How to File

    Online: hcad.org via iFile

    By mail: Form 41-44 to HCAD, P.O. Box 920975, Houston, TX 77292

    In person: 13013 Northwest Freeway

    Evidence to Gather

    • 3-5 comparable sales
    • Condition issue photos
    • Equity comparisons
    • Property record errors

    The Informal Process

    1. Receive hearing date
    2. Review HCAD's evidence packet
    3. Meet with appraiser
    4. Present evidence
    5. Negotiate settlement

    Common Mistakes

    • Missing deadline
    • No evidence
    • Wrong comparables
    • Skipping informal

    Paying Too Much in Property Taxes?

    Let our licensed property tax experts assess your tax bill for potential savings. Over 80% of protests get a reduction of more than $1,000 and it takes less than 3 minutes to enroll.

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    FAQs

    How do I file a protest with HCAD online?

    Visit hcad.org, click on iFile, and enter your property ID and PIN from your appraisal notice.

    Can I do my hearing by phone?

    Yes. Harris County offers phone and online video hearings as alternatives to in-person.

    Ryder Meehan
    Posted by:

    Ryder Meehan

    Ryder Meehan is the Co-Founder of TaxDrop and a Licensed Property Tax Protest Consultant