It's that time of year. Appraisal notices are landing in DFW mailboxes. Here's your complete guide to protesting and saving hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Why you should ALWAYS protest:
- 60-70% of protests result in a reduction (Texas Comptroller data)
- Average homeowner saves $800-$1,500/year
- It costs nothing to file — zero risk, high reward
- You can protest EVERY YEAR
2026 Deadlines:
- Dallas County (DCAD): File by May 15 at dallascad.org
- Tarrant County (TAD): File by May 15 at tad.org
- Collin County (CCAD): File by May 15 at collincad.org
- Denton County (DCAD): File by May 15 at dentoncad.com
Step-by-step:
- Get your appraisal notice (mailed April 1-15, also available online)
- File protest online — check BOTH "value is over market" and "unequal appraisal"
- Research comparable sales: homes similar to yours that sold for less
- Research unequal appraisals: neighbors' homes appraised lower than yours
- Attend informal hearing (phone or in-person) with your evidence
- If not satisfied, escalate to ARB formal hearing
Best evidence:
- 3-5 comparable sales within 1 mile, same size/age/condition
- Neighbor appraisals from the appraisal district's own website
- Photos of any defects: foundation cracks, old roof, outdated interior
- Professional appraisal if you have one
Source: Texas Tax Code Ch. 41, each county appraisal district's protest procedures
If you hate paperwork, Ownwell does it for 25% of savings. They only charge if they win. I use them every year. Worth it for the convenience.