Hays County Property Tax Protests: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

If you’re a homeowner in Hays County, you have the right to protest your property’s appraised value each year. With values on the rise across San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, and surrounding communities, 2025 could be the year that protesting your appraisal makes a real difference in your tax bill. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Review Your Notice of Appraised Value

Each spring, the Hays Central Appraisal District (HCAD) sends out your Notice of Appraised Value. This includes:

• The proposed appraised value for your property as of January 1, 2025
• Previous year’s value
• Exemptions applied (e.g., homestead or over-65)
• Instructions for filing a protest

Important: Review all details for accuracy. Errors in square footage, property type, or condition can lead to overvaluation.

Step 2: Understand Your Protest Deadline

You have until May 15 or 30 days after the notice was mailed, whichever is later, to file your protest. Missing this deadline could mean losing your chance to challenge your appraisal.

Step 3: File Your Protest with HCAD

You can file your protest:

• Online via the HCAD website (the fastest and easiest method)
• By mail using the protest form included with your appraisal notice
• In person at the HCAD office in San Marcos

Step 4: Prepare Your Evidence

To make a compelling case, gather documentation such as:

• Recent sales of comparable homes (comps)
• Photos of property damage or needed repairs
• Contractor estimates
• Independent appraisals (optional but strong)
• Documentation showing differences from neighboring properties

Step 5: Attend the Informal Review

HCAD will schedule an informal meeting where you can present your case to a staff appraiser. This is often the best chance to settle before going to a formal hearing.

Tips:

• Be polite and organized
• Focus on facts, not emotions
• Present your strongest comps and supporting materials

Step 6: Appraisal Review Board (ARB) Hearing (if needed)

If no agreement is reached at the informal stage, your protest will go before the ARB—a panel of citizens who hear formal cases. This hearing is more structured but still accessible to homeowners.

Step 7: Receive Final Decision and Adjusted Value

After the hearing, you’ll receive a written notice of the ARB’s decision. If your protest is successful, your property’s appraised value will be adjusted, and your 2025 tax bill will reflect the new amount.

Ballard Property Tax Protest Is Here to Help

Whether you’re in Kyle, San Marcos, Buda, or beyond, we know the unique factors driving values across Hays County. Our expert team manages the protest process for you—from filing to final hearing—maximizing your chance for success.

Don’t leave money on the table. Schedule your free consultation with Ballard Property Tax Protest today and take the first step toward a fair appraisal.