Protest Property Taxes

Image:  Dave Lieber

Steps for filing an Electronic Protest:

1.  Visit Hidalgo County Appraisal District website:  http://www.hidalgoad.org/

2.  Click Protest Online (red button, center of screen).

3.  Enter username and password (or Create New User).  Click Login.

4.  Click Online Appeals (right of screen).

5.  Click here to E-File (green button - top right of screen).

6.  Click E-File (blue button - left of screen).

7.  Enter comments (I chose not to enter anything).  Click Submit.

8.  Enter Opinion of Value (I chose to enter last year's value - this may depend on a *Market Analysis if you have one from a realtor).  Enter Protest Reasons (I chose 1 and 2).  Click Submit.

9.  Click Done.

10.  Click Log Out.

You should receive an e-mail stating that a protest and case number have been successfully created for your property.

*Market Analysis:  Call Christian Chavez 956-474-3800.  He is a realtor with Deldi Ortegon Group that is well-informed and helpful.

The Hidalgo County Appraisal District sends these notices if the appraised value is $1,000 or more than the previous year.  I recommend that you protest EVERY YEAR and that you ask your neighbors to do the same.  The deadline for filing a protest is May 17, 2021.

Due to COVID-19, we will probably not be able to meet with an appraiser in person after submitting the online protest.  In the past, an appointment was given.  I went to their office to share my comparable properties with the appraiser.  He conducted a market analysis to verify the data.  Most times we were able to settle with his supervisor's approval.  I have never taken it to the next level which would involve an Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing.  It is up to you if you want to pursue that route, but I do not believe it would be worth my time or effort.  I believe the same actions will occur this year, but it will be over the phone.

The Hidalgo County Appraisal District does NOT mail out any information in Spanish.  There are many people in our county that only know Spanish.  The website has the information available in Spanish.  Please tell your family and friends.  The following link describes Property Taxpayer Remedies in Spanish:  http://www.hidalgoad.org/forms/96-295S.pdf

Tips:
1.  File your protest online as soon as possible.
2.  Get a free Market Analysis from a realtor:  Christian Chavez 956-474-3800.  Do NOT share the analysis information if it shows a higher amount than their appraisal.  You would not an increase on their appraisal.
3.  Do not get emotional.
4.  Stick to the facts.
5.  Deterioration (roof or other major repairs needed to your home) may help your case.  Pictures and other documentation are highly recommended.
6.  Do NOT be intimidated by this process.

I am a taxpayer just like you.  I am NOT an expert, but I have had 90%+ success rate over the years.  Please share this post with other property owners.  Please share comments below that may help others.

Jesus T. Peña, M.Ed.

If your organization is interested in partnering for an event, please see the contact information below:

E-mail:  rgvdad2@gmail.com

Website:  fb.me/rgvdads

Twitter:  @rgvdads

Instagram:  rgvdads