My Property Tax Bill Went Up—What Are My Options in Galveston County?

Introduction

If you just received your Galveston County property tax appraisal and noticed a big increase, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience higher property tax bills due to rising home values and changes in assessed values by the Galveston Central Appraisal District (GCAD). But don’t panic—there are several steps you can take to reduce your tax burden and ensure you’re not overpaying.

In this guide, we’ll break down why your property tax bill may have increased and what you can do about it, including filing a property tax protest, applying for exemptions, and exploring payment options to ease the financial impact.

Why Did My Galveston County Property Taxes Go Up?

Property taxes are based on two key factors:

1. Your Property’s Assessed Value – Determined annually by GCAD, this value is supposed to reflect market conditions.
2. Tax Rates Set by Local Authorities – Cities, school districts, and other taxing entities set rates based on budget needs.

Common Reasons for a Property Tax Increase:

• Home values in your neighborhood have risen.
• GCAD reassessed your home’s value based on recent sales.
• New local tax rates were approved by voters or officials.
• Improvements or renovations increased your home’s taxable value.

What Can I Do If My Property Tax Bill Increased?

1. File a Property Tax Protest

If you believe your home’s assessed value is too high, you can file a property tax protest with GCAD. This process allows you to challenge the valuation and potentially lower your tax bill.

• Deadline: May 15, 2025 (or 30 days after receiving your appraisal notice)
• How to File: Submit a protest online via Galveston CAD’s website, by mail, or in person.
• What You’ll Need: Comparable home sales data, an independent appraisal, or evidence of property condition issues.

Pro Tip: Many homeowners successfully reduce their tax bill by protesting annually!

2. Check for Exemptions You Qualify For

You may be eligible for property tax exemptions that can lower your taxable home value. Common exemptions include:

• Homestead Exemption – Reduces taxable value for primary residences.
• Over-65 & Disability Exemptions – Provides additional relief for qualifying homeowners.
• Veteran’s Exemption – Benefits for disabled veterans or surviving spouses.

Verify your exemption status and apply through GCAD’s exemption portal.

3. Understand Your Payment Options

If your tax bill is higher than expected, consider these options:

• Payment Plans – Some counties allow installment payments instead of one lump sum.
• Tax Deferrals – Seniors (65+) and disabled homeowners may qualify for tax deferrals, postponing payment until the home is sold.
• Mortgage Escrow Adjustments – If your lender pays property taxes through an escrow account, expect an increase in monthly mortgage payments.

Take Action Now to Lower Your Property Taxes

Receiving a higher property tax bill can be stressful, but you have options. Whether you choose to file a property tax protest, apply for exemptions, or explore payment plans, acting now can save you money.

At Ballard Property Tax Protest, we specialize in helping homeowners successfully challenge their property assessments. Let us handle the process for you—contact us today for a free consultation!

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait until your tax bill is due—take action as soon as you receive your appraisal notice. By understanding your rights and options, you can keep your property taxes as low as possible.