The Texas Comptroller’s office has released an updated Taxpayer Bill of Rights, a guide that lays out fundamental rights for anyone who owns property in the state. The bill, published in the Texas Property Tax Basics handbook and refreshed in March 2024, spells out what taxpayers can do if their bills aren’t fair or don’t reflect the correct amount of taxes owed.
Comptroller Glenn Hegar has said the purpose is simple: give people clear tax information, reduce confusion, and keep them informed about their choices in the state’s tax system. That matters right now, as many property owners across Texas have seen values rise and are questioning how local governments decide tax rates that fund schools, police, and other public services.
The Taxpayer Bill of Rights requires that property values be measured using accepted methods. That way, owners are more likely to pay the correct amount. They can challenge the appraisal, submit a claim, and even appeal to a local board if they disagree. Should that fail, the case can go to the district court. These steps help people retain trust in the law and feel confident that payments are correctly handled.
Unlike federal income taxes, property levies are decided closer to home. Local governments set tax rates, and those decisions directly affect the cost of housing, mortgage bills, and small-business budgets. Under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, residents can attend public hearings, ask questions, and press officials when tax increases are on the table. In some situations, voter approval is required before a rate can climb, giving communities a direct say in how revenue is raised and spent.
The Comptroller’s office is expected to deliver quality service. That means people should be able to access clear instructions, downloadable forms, and hotlines with a working telephone number. They can also contact appraisal districts by mail or through the official website. These options help owners determine whether they qualify for exemptions, deductions, or credits that may reduce what they pay in taxes.
Texas has no statewide property levy. Instead, local governments—counties, cities, school districts, and special districts—collect property taxes to support schools, road work, and public safety. Residents must be notified by a set date if their property values change. That notice allows them to prepare, retain records, and decide whether to protest.
The IRS’s position is spelled out in the National Taxpayer Bill of Rights, which outlines its position at the federal level and echoes many of the principles Texas now emphasizes. By design, both systems aim to balance obligations with fairness—collecting the revenue the government needs while making sure the bill matches what’s legally applicable.
For property owners, the update is more than a policy document. It’s a reminder of the agreement between residents and government: taxes must be collected, but they must also be correct. With the new guide, Texans can file a claim, seek refunds if overbilled, or limit penalties when issues arise. For many, this shows up as the yearly notice in the mail—a single statement that can raise questions about money and obligations.
Anyone can access official help through the Comptroller’s office by telephone, mail, or the state website. These channels keep many others up-to-date with timely guidance, letting them keep their account accurate and their payments in order. Funds can be refunded if mistakes happen, easing concerns for families managing mortgages or businesses watching their bottom line.
The full Taxpayer Bill of Rights is available at the Texas Comptroller’s website. For federal guidance, see the IRS Taxpayer Bill of Rights.
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