What this calculator does
Every Texas property owner can protest the appraised value each year. This calculator shows the yearly tax saving if you win a lower value from Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD), and an 'expected value' that factors in your odds of success and any firm's fee.
How to use it
- Enter the value on your notice.
- Enter the value you can support with evidence: recent sales of similar homes, repair estimates or errors in the record.
- Keep homestead ticked if it applies.
- Estimate your odds of success and any firm fee.
The formula
Saving = tax at notice value − tax at target value, using each taxing unit's rate and exemptions. Expected value = saving × chance of success × (1 − fee %).
Worked example
Using the default inputs shown in the calculator above:
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Appraisal notice value | $330,000 |
| Your target value (evidence-based) | $304,000 |
| Tax at notice value | $4,711 |
| Tax at target value | $4,243 |
| Yearly saving if successful | $468 |
| Protest firm fee (0% of savings) | $0 |
Tax saved if the protest wins: $468 / year. Reducing the value from $330,000 to $304,000.
Every $1,000 of value removed saves about $18.00 a year at Houston's combined rates. The "expected value" multiplies the saving by the chance of success you entered, which is a way to compare the effort (or a firm's fee) with the likely payoff.
How protests work in Houston
The deadline is usually May 15, or 30 days after the notice is mailed if later. Many protests settle at an informal meeting; if not, an Appraisal Review Board hearing decides. Evidence that works: comparable sales, photos of needed repairs, and data errors. Harris County notices commonly arrive in April; HCAD offers an online protest and iSettle offer system.
Common mistakes and tips
- Arguing that taxes are too high — the board decides value, not rates.
- Missing the deadline.
- Bringing listings instead of sales as evidence.
- Forgetting that with a homestead, next year's taxable value can rise only 10% from the new value.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth protesting property taxes in Houston?
Often, yes. It costs nothing to file yourself, and even a small reduction lowers the bill every year after through the homestead cap.
What evidence works best?
Recent sales of similar homes near yours, repair estimates, and errors in square footage or condition on the appraisal record.
Do protest firms work?
Many charge a share of the savings (often 25% to 50%). Enter their fee to compare against doing it yourself.
Can my value go up at a hearing?
It is rare, but the board decides market value on the evidence presented.
Sources
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, legal, real estate, or insurance advice. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.