Property Tax FAQ

Is it too late to protest?

Timing & Deadlines
In most cases, it is now too late to file a timely protest for values. However, if you have just received your notice of value, you may still have time. Otherwise, you are limited to filing for a late correction, which has stringent requirements.

When is the deadline to protest?

Timing & Deadlines
In most cases, the deadline to protest is May 15th of every year. If May 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline is extended to the next business day.

How can you reduce my value?

The Process
Our experience in thousands of tax appeals gives us the best insights in how to reduce your appraised value. For commercial properties, we find comparable sales, analyze income and expenses, and create an equity spreadsheet comparing your value to similar properties. For residential properties, the process is much the same, though income analysis is usually not indicated. We understand the intricacies of the appraisal process and will aggressively challenge your tax assessment to obtain the lowest value allowed by law.

Do I have to attend the hearings?

The Process
No. Roberts Tax Appeals will attend all appraisal district hearings on your behalf — you don't need to do a thing.

Is there a fee if you don't reduce my property value?

Fees
No. With a contingent fee agreement you will not be billed unless we reduce your property taxes — no savings, no cost to you. Please note, however, that we do charge a flat yearly fee to appeal most Fort Bend residential properties and to prepare rendition forms.

How are fees billed for current and future years?

Fees
If we reduce your taxes, the fee applies to the protested year only. Your contract remains in effect until you cancel it — we will continue protesting each year and only send a bill if we successfully reduce your property assessment for that year.

Can my taxes go up?

Risks
There is a chance, but it is very rare. Property taxes are raised in only about 1 in every 10,000 property tax protest hearings — usually due to extenuating circumstances.

Will the Appraisal District inspect my property after a protest?

Risks
No — the appraisal district does not visit properties simply because they have been protested. At the hearing, we can request a visit if we believe the building size has been substantially overstated. Otherwise, they do not have time to individually visit protested properties.

What about Business Personal Property?

Business Property
Business Personal Property (BPP) is defined as tangible assets held or used for the production of income — furniture and fixtures, machinery and equipment, computers, inventory, etc. These assets are assessed property taxes and must be reported yearly to the appraisal district via a Rendition. The deadline to file renditions is April 15. Roberts Tax Appeals prepares and files renditions on a flat-fee basis. Failing to file on time results in financial penalties, so letting us handle it just makes sense.

Which counties do we service?

Area

Ready to Lower Your Property Taxes?