The taxing entities set the tax rate which determines how much property tax each property owner pays.

FAQs Archive | Page 9 of 12 | Travis Central Appraisal District

Q: I purchased a property that has been split. When will my name be shown as the owner?

If you purchased a property that will be split after January 1st, then the ownership will not be updated until the following calendar year.

Q: Is there a fee to file for an exemption?

There is no fee to file and you do not have to hire anyone to file for you. It is not necessary for homeowners to pay anyone to file for a homestead exemption or to obtain a refund for the late filing of a homestead or senior citizen exemption. Homestead exemption forms are available on our website.

Q: How many acres can I claim as my homestead?

State law allows you to claim the portion of your land that you maintain for residential purposes, but this amount may not exceed 20 acres. Generally, one acre or less is maintained for homestead purposes.

Q: What types of exemptions require an annual application?

The law requires an annual application by April 30 for some types of exemptions, including property exempted from Taxation by Agreement (Property Tax Abatement), Historical and Archeological Sites, Miscellaneous Exemption, Low Income Housing Exemption, and exemption of Freeport Goods. Cemeteries, charitable organizations, youth development organizations, religious organizations, non-profit private schools, and exemption of Pollution control property approved by the Texas Commission on Environment Quality (TCEQ) do not have to reapply for the exemption each year once the property tax exemption is granted, unless by written notice, the Chief Appraiser requests the property owner to file a new application. However, if their exempt property changes ownership or if their qualifications for exemption change, they must reapply.

Q: What if I cannot or do not pay my taxes?

If you do not pay your taxes by the deadline, penalty and interest charges will be added to your original tax obligation and you will receive delinquent tax notices. You may be sued and you may face problems selling your property. If you are having difficulty paying your property taxes, contact your local tax office. You may have the option to set up an installment plan. In some cases, you may be able to request a deferral or all or a portion of your tax bill.

Q: I am deaf. Will TCAD arrange for me to have an interpreter at my hearing?

Yes, at least 48 hours prior to your formal hearing please notify the district and we will arrange for an American Sign Language interpreter. Please send the request to hr@traviscad.org .