How to File a DCAD Property Tax Protest Online Step by Step
Filing a DCAD online protest is the fastest and most efficient way to challenge your Dallas County property tax assessment. The Dallas Central Appraisal District's uFile system allows homeowners to submit protests, upload evidence, and receive settlement offers without visiting the office in person.
This guide covers:
- How to access the DCAD uFile online protest system
- Step-by-step instructions for filing your protest
- Required documents and information
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Tips for a successful online submission
For a complete overview of the Dallas County protest process, see our Dallas County property tax protest guide.
What Is the DCAD uFile System?
uFile is DCAD's official online protest and settlement system. It allows Dallas County property owners to:
- File property tax protests electronically
- Upload supporting evidence
- Receive and respond to settlement offers
- Track protest status
DCAD encourages all property owners to use uFile for faster processing and immediate confirmation.
DCAD Online Protest Deadline
The deadline to file is May 15, 2026, or 30 days after your Notice of Appraised Value is mailed, whichever is later.
The uFile portal is typically open from May 1 through May 31 for residential and commercial properties.
Missing the deadline eliminates your right to protest for the year.
Step-by-Step: How to File a DCAD Property Tax Protest Online
Step 1: Access the DCAD Website
Visit www.dallascad.org and search for your property using:
- Owner name (last name first)
- Property account number
- Street address
Step 2: Navigate to uFile
From your property's account page, click the "uFile Online Protest" link to begin.
Step 3: Select Your Protest Reason
Choose all reasons that apply:
- Value is over market value (higher than comparable recent sales)
- Value is unequal compared to other properties (assessed higher than similar homes)
- Errors in DCAD data (incorrect square footage, bedroom count, lot size)
Selecting multiple reasons preserves your options during the hearing.
Step 4: Enter Your Opinion of Value
Provide your estimate of what your property is worth. This is required to qualify for a settlement offer through uFile.
Be realistic but support your number with evidence.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Evidence
Add documents that support your protest, including:
- Comparable property sales
- Recent closing statements (if applicable)
- Professional appraisals or contractor estimates
- Photos of property condition
- Documentation of DCAD data errors
Step 6: Submit Your Information
Enter your email address, phone number, and name. Click "File Protest" to complete your submission.
You will receive immediate confirmation that DCAD received your protest.
What Documents Do You Need?
Required Information:
- DCAD property account number
- PIN from your Notice of Appraised Value
- Email address and phone number
Supporting Evidence:
| Evidence Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Comparable sales | Proves similar homes sold for less |
| Closing statement | Documents your purchase price |
| Photos | Shows property condition issues |
| Contractor estimates | Supports repair cost claims |
| Cover letter | Summarizes your argument |
Evidence should be specific, dated, and directly relevant to your property's value.
Common Mistakes When Filing Online
Avoid these errors that can weaken or disqualify your protest:
- Missing the May 15 deadline - DCAD does not accept "good cause" for late filing
- Not including an opinion of value - Disqualifies you from settlement offers
- Weak or irrelevant evidence - Generic photos without context don't help
- Using outdated comparable sales - Sales should be within 6-12 months of January 1
- Filing both online and by mail - Creates confusion; choose one method
- Waiting until the last day - Technical issues increase near the deadline
- Not checking for data errors - Review square footage, lot size, and features first
Tips for a Successful DCAD Online Protest
Before Filing:
- Review your Notice of Appraised Value for accuracy
- Research 3-5 comparable sales in your neighborhood
- Take clear photos of any property issues
- Gather repair estimates for documented problems
During Filing:
- File early in May to avoid system congestion
- Select all applicable protest reasons
- Be specific in your opinion of value
- Upload organized, clearly labeled evidence
After Filing:
- Save your confirmation email
- Expect DCAD to contact you before your hearing if evidence warrants review
- Prepare for either an informal review or formal ARB hearing
What Happens After You File?
Once your online protest is submitted:
- Confirmation - You receive immediate email confirmation
- Evidence Review - DCAD staff reviews your documentation
- Settlement Offer - You may receive an online settlement through uFile
- Informal Review - DCAD may contact you to discuss your case
- ARB Hearing - If no agreement is reached, your case goes to the Appraisal Review Board
Most protests resolve at the informal stage when strong evidence is submitted early.
Why File Online Instead of by Mail?
| Online (uFile) | |
|---|---|
| Immediate confirmation | No confirmation until processed |
| Faster processing | Slower, may miss tight deadlines |
| Easier evidence uploads | Must mail physical copies |
| Access to online settlement | Limited settlement options |
| Track status online | No tracking available |
Online filing is DCAD's preferred method and provides significant advantages.
DCAD Protest Success Statistics
Dallas County property owners have strong odds when protesting:
| Metric | Rate |
|---|---|
| Informal protest success rate | 85% |
| ARB hearing success rate | 70% |
| Average reduction achieved | 5-15% |
Over 150,000 protests are filed annually in Dallas County. There's no penalty for filing, and you can withdraw anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the DCAD online protest process take?
From filing to resolution, most DCAD protests take 2-4 months. Online filing provides immediate confirmation, and settlement offers through uFile typically arrive within 2-3 weeks. ARB hearings are scheduled May through July.
Can I file a DCAD protest without the PIN from my notice?
Yes, but it's more difficult. Without your PIN, you'll need to file by mail or in person using the official Notice of Protest form. Contact DCAD at 214-631-0910 to request your PIN or verify your property information.
What if DCAD's comparable sales don't match my neighborhood?
Challenge them with your own comparable sales. Use recently sold homes (within 12 months of January 1) that are similar in size, age, condition, and location. The DCAD website and real estate sites like Zillow can help you find relevant comparables.
Is there a fee to file a DCAD property tax protest online?
No. Filing a protest through DCAD's uFile system is completely free. There are no filing fees, and you won't owe anything unless you appeal beyond the ARB to district court or binding arbitration.
Can I protest my Dallas County property taxes every year?
Yes. You have the right to protest annually, regardless of whether your value increased. Even if you protested last year, you can (and should) protest again if you believe the current assessment is too high.
How This Fits Into the Texas Protest Process
Dallas County follows Texas Property Tax Code procedures, but DCAD has specific systems and timelines.
For statewide context on deadlines, evidence, and hearings, see our Texas property tax protest guide.
Get Help With Your Dallas County Property Tax Protest
Filing online is straightforward, but building a winning case requires research, evidence, and strategy.
If you want professional help preparing evidence, navigating the uFile system, and negotiating with DCAD, expert representation can improve your results.
Learn more in our Dallas County property tax protest guide, or get started today with Ballard Property Tax Protest.