Property Tax

Navigating property taxes can be complex, but understanding the specifics of Tarrant County, Texas, property tax regulations is crucial for homeowners, property investors, and residents. This article will provide an in-depth guide on the various aspects of property tax in Tarrant County, TX, including payment options, tax rates, exemptions, and important deadlines. We will also highlight key departments involved in property tax management, providing essential contact information to ensure you stay informed and compliant.

What is Property Tax in Tarrant County?

Property taxes are levied by the local government to fund essential services, such as public schools, emergency services, infrastructure, and community development projects. In Tarrant County, the Tax Assessor-Collector is responsible for the collection of property taxes, while the Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD) handles property assessments.

How Property Tax is Calculated

Tarrant County property taxes are calculated based on the appraised value of real property, including land and buildings. This value is determined by the Tarrant Appraisal District, which assesses properties annually. The local tax rate set by various taxing entities, such as cities, school districts, and the county, is then applied to the appraised value to determine the amount of tax owed.

The general formula for calculating property taxes is:

Appraised Value x Tax Rate = Property Tax Due

For example, if your property is appraised at $200,000 and the combined tax rate for all taxing entities is 2.5%, your property tax due would be $5,000.

Important Dates for Tarrant County Property Taxes

Timely payment of property taxes in Tarrant County is essential to avoid penalties and interest. The following are key dates you should mark on your calendar:

Tax Statements Sent: Property tax statements are usually mailed by the first week of October.

Payment Due Date: Payments are due by January 31 of the following year, or by the due date for applicable half payments or quarter payments.

Delinquent Taxes: Taxes become delinquent on February 1 for the current tax year, and penalties and interest will start to accrue from that date.

You can find important information about these deadlines and more on the official Tarrant County website.

Property Tax Payment Options

Tarrant County offers various convenient payment methods to ensure taxpayers can pay their property taxes in a timely manner. The available options include:

Online Payments

The Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector provides a user-friendly online payment portal. Taxpayers can access their accounts, view tax statements, and make payments 24/7. You can pay via credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) or e-check. Visit the Tarrant County property tax payment portal to get started.

In-Person Payments

For those who prefer to pay in person, payments can be made at any of the Tarrant County Tax Office locations. Be sure to check the list of locations for the nearest office.

Mail Payments

Payments can be mailed to the Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector at:

Rick D. Barnes, Tax Assessor-Collector
PO Box 961018
Fort Worth, TX 76161-0018

Payments must be postmarked by January 31 to avoid penalties. Checks and money orders are accepted, but debit and credit cards are not.

Drop Boxes and Kiosks

Tarrant County offers convenient drop boxes for property tax payments at select locations. These are especially useful if you want to avoid waiting in line. You can drop off checks only, and payments are posted with the date of submission.

Additionally, kiosks are available at certain locations for quick payments using credit/debit cards or e-checks.

Phone Payments

You can also make payments by phone by calling the third-party processor at 817-884-1110. Phone payments can be made 24 hours a day. Have your account number ready when you call.

Tax Rates, Exemptions, and Deductions in Tarrant County

Tax Rates

Each taxing entity within Tarrant County—such as cities, school districts, and the county itself—sets its own tax rate. The combined tax rate is used to calculate the total amount owed on your property. You can view the current year’s tax rates on the Tarrant County Tax Office website. Additionally, property tax rates are calculated based on the appraised value of the property, which may change each year.

Exemptions

Tarrant County offers various property tax exemptions that can reduce the amount of tax you owe. Common exemptions include:

Homestead Exemption: Reduces the taxable value of your primary residence.
Over-65 Exemption: Available for homeowners aged 65 and older.
Disabled Veteran Exemption: Provides a reduction for veterans with disabilities.
Surviving Spouse Exemption: Available for the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran.
Disability Exemption: For homeowners with disabilities.

Exemption applications are available through the Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD).

How to File for Property Tax Exemptions

You can apply for exemptions through the Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD). The process is straightforward, and you can find more details on the Tarrant Appraisal District website. Please note that there is no fee for applying for exemptions or for requesting refunds for overpaid property taxes.

Property Tax Refunds

If you believe you have overpaid your property taxes or are eligible for a refund due to adjustments, you can request a refund through the Tarrant County Tax Office. Refund requests can be made through the Tarrant County property tax refund page.

Penalties and Interest for Late Payments

Tarrant County imposes penalties and interest on overdue property taxes. Penalties typically start on February 1, and interest will accrue each month that the tax remains unpaid. The penalty structure includes:

February: 6% penalty
March: 7% penalty
April: 8% penalty, and so on

Interest is calculated at an annual rate of 1% for each month the tax remains unpaid.

Key Departments and Contact Information

To assist you with property tax-related matters, the following departments are available:

Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector
Address: 100 E. Weatherford Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196
Phone: 817-884-1100
Email: taxoffice@tarrantcountytx.gov

Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD)
Address: 2500 Handley Ederville Road, Fort Worth, TX 76118
Phone: 817-284-0024
Email: chiefappraiser@tad.org

Tarrant County Treasurer
Address: 100 E. Weatherford Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196
Phone: 817-884-1100

By understanding these key elements of property tax in Tarrant County, you can ensure that you meet your tax obligations and take full advantage of available exemptions and payment options.

Tarrant County Property Tax FAQs

When are property tax statements mailed in Tarrant County?

Property tax statements in Tarrant County are typically mailed in the first week of October. However, it’s important to note that failure to receive a property tax statement does not exempt a taxpayer from penalties or interest.

What should I do if I don't receive my property tax statement?

If you do not receive your property tax statement, you can use the search feature on the Tarrant County website to locate your account and access your statement online. Alternatively, you may contact the Tarrant County Tax Office at 817-884-1100 or email taxoffice@tarrantcountytx.gov to request a statement.

Where can I make my property tax payment?

Property taxes in Tarrant County can be paid in several ways. You can pay online via the Tarrant County Tax Office payment portal, by phone, or in person at one of the Tax Assessor-Collector’s office locations. Payments can also be mailed to the Tax Office at P.O. Box 961018, Fort Worth, TX 76161-0018. Ensure your mailed payment is postmarked by the due date to avoid penalties.

What is the last day to pay property taxes without penalties?

The last day to pay property taxes in Tarrant County without incurring penalties is January 31. If you are eligible for half or quarter payments, be sure to meet the specific deadlines for those payment plans.

What payment options are available for property taxes?

Tarrant County offers multiple payment options for property taxes, including online payments, payments by phone, in-person payments at designated locations, and payments via mail. If you choose to pay by check, ensure it is made payable to Rick D. Barnes, Tax Assessor-Collector. For credit and debit card payments, fees may apply.

Can I pay my taxes in installments?

Yes, Tarrant County offers two installment payment options. The Half Payment Option allows property owners to pay their taxes in two installments. The Quarter Payment Option is available for those who meet specific requirements, such as having a homestead exemption or qualifying for an Over-65 or Disability Exemption.