Property taxes, fact-checked
5 property tax myths, checked against the law
Five beliefs about property tax appeals, checked against state law. Where the rules differ by state, we say so.
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Property tax appeals come with a lot of folklore: that filing can backfire, that it takes a lawyer, that it's only worth it for big houses. Here is what the law in each named state says.
Myth 01
“Appealing will just raise my taxes”
What the law says
It depends on your state.
- In Texas, the appraisal review board generally cannot set a protested value above the appraisal district's figure unless the owner agrees.1
- In California, an appeals board can lower, raise or confirm a value based on the evidence.2
- In Washington, county boards must raise values found below true and fair value, after written notice.3
Rules differ by state, so check yours before you file.
A free savings estimate doesn't file anything. It shows how your assessment compares with similar homes nearby.
See your free savings estimateMyth 02
“You need a lawyer to appeal”
What the law says
You can file a property tax appeal yourself; hiring a professional is optional.
That's how it works in California, Texas, Florida and for homeowners in Cook County, Illinois.2, 4, 5, 6 In Texas, you can take part in your hearing by phone or video, or send your evidence in a sworn affidavit instead of attending.9
Myth 03
“Appeals are only for expensive homes”
What the law says
The right to challenge belongs to the owner, not to a price bracket.
- In Texas, any property owner is entitled to protest the appraised value of their property.4
- In California, the property owner can file an appeal.2
Myth 04
“The county's number is final”
What the law says
Your assessed value is an estimate, and every state on this page gives you a way to challenge it.
- In Cook County, for example, the Board of Review can revise an assessment up or down.6
- In California, the appeals board decides based on the evidence you and the assessor present.2
Who has to prove the value
In Texas, the appraisal district generally has to establish your property's value at a protest hearing. If it doesn't meet that standard, the protest is decided in your favor. You're also entitled, on request, to a free copy of the information the chief appraiser will present.11
In California, the assessor bears the burden of proof when you appeal the value of the single-family home you live in. The state's guide calls sales of similar homes the most reliable evidence in most residential appeals.2
Myth 05
“I can do it any time”
What the law says
There's a deadline, and it's short.
- In Texas, it's May 15 or 30 days after your appraisal notice was delivered, whichever is later.7
- In Florida, a value petition is due within 25 days of the TRIM notice.5
- In California, the regular window opens July 2 and closes September 15 or November 30, depending on the county.8
Start with your own number
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