An informal hearing is a meeting between you and an appraisal district representative to discuss your property's assessed value. It's the first step in the Texas property tax protest processâand where most appeals get resolved.
Unlike formal ARB hearings, informal hearings are conversational. You sit down with a staff appraiser, present your evidence, and try to reach an agreement on a fair value. There's no panel, no formal procedures, and no sworn testimony.
If you reach an agreement, you sign a settlement and your protest is complete. If not, your case moves to a formal hearing with the Appraisal Review Board.
About 85% of Texas property tax protests settle at the informal hearing stage. It's faster, easier, and less stressful than going to the ARB.
The key is preparation. Appraisal district staff see hundreds of protestsâthey respond to evidence, not emotions. Come with comparable sales, photos, and documentation. Make their job easy by showing exactly why your value should be lower.
Even if you don't get everything you want at the informal hearing, any reduction saves you money. And you can still proceed to the ARB if the offer isn't acceptable.
Mike protested his $480,000 assessment in Collin County. At his informal hearing:
⢠He brought 4 comparable sales averaging $445,000
⢠He showed photos of his dated kitchen and aging roof
⢠The appraiser reviewed his evidence and county records
After 20 minutes of discussion, they agreed on $455,000âa $25,000 reduction. Mike signed the settlement form and was done. No formal hearing needed.
Annual savings: approximately $625
Not always. Many Texas counties now offer phone hearings and online portals for informal negotiations. Check with your appraisal district for available options. Some complex cases benefit from in-person meetings.
Bring comparable sales data, photos of property condition issues, repair estimates if applicable, and any documentation supporting a lower value. The more organized your evidence, the better your chances of a favorable settlement.
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Informal hearings often result in settlements without the time and formality of ARB proceedings. You also learn what evidence the district has, which helps if you do go to ARB.