The tax collector (sometimes called the Tax Assessor-Collector, County Treasurer, or Tax Commissioner depending on your state) is the office that sends your property tax bill and collects payment. This is a different office than the appraisal district that sets your property's value.
Understanding this distinction matters: if you want to challenge your assessed value, you work with the appraisal district. If you have questions about your bill, payment options, or deadlines, you contact the tax collector.
The tax collector can't change your assessed value—they simply calculate your bill based on the value from the appraisal district and the rates set by taxing entities.
Knowing who does what helps you navigate the system effectively:
Contact the Tax Collector when:
• You need to make a payment
• You didn't receive your tax bill
• You need payment plan options
• You have questions about amounts due
• You need proof of payment
Contact the Appraisal District when:
• You want to protest your value
• You need to apply for exemptions
• Your property records have errors
• You have questions about your assessment
Both offices have different contact information, websites, and responsibilities. Look up each separately for your county.
Appraisal District vs. Tax Collector:
Appraisal District:
• Sets your property's assessed value
• Handles exemption applications
• Conducts protest hearings
• Maintains property records
• Sends Notice of Appraised Value (spring)
Tax Collector:
• Calculates your tax bill
• Sends tax statements (fall)
• Collects payments
• Manages payment plans
• Handles delinquent accounts
• Issues tax certificates
Contact the right office for your needs—calling the tax collector about your assessed value wastes everyone's time.
No. The tax collector only collects what's owed based on values set by the appraisal district and rates set by taxing entities. To lower your taxes, you must either protest your assessed value (appraisal district) or vote for lower rates (taxing entities).
Contact your tax collector about payment plans. Many counties offer installment options, especially for seniors, disabled homeowners, or those facing hardship. Communicate early—waiting until you're delinquent limits your options.
It depends on your state and county. Some jurisdictions combine these roles (Tax Assessor-Collector). Others separate them completely. In Texas, the appraisal district handles assessment while a separate office (often the county tax office) handles collection.