UPDATE: 10/14/19
Two commissioners did not show up for the vote on the proposed tax rate increase. Furthermore, the 2019-2020 property tax rates for FOUR Houston area taxing entities have been finalized to a combined rate of $0.61170 per $100 valuation, which is decreased from the 2018-2019 combined rate of $0.62998. Rates are as follows:
- Harris County: $0.40713
- Flood Control District: $0.02792
- Harris Health System: $0.16591
- Port of Houston Authority: $0.01074
PUBLISHED: 10/2/19
You can’t turn on the news or open a newspaper lately without some news related to the Houston property tax rates. Rates are being decided on now, and the combined rates from the school district, county, and city will make up your final property tax burden.
Keep in mind; lowered tax rates do NOT necessarily mean a lower tax bill. With property values on the rise, you still could be paying more this year.
While not all rates have been finalized yet, there are a few things you need to know.
City of Houston Property Tax Rates 2019
There was a cap set in 2004, limiting property tax revenue growth to 4.5% OR the combined rates of population growth and inflation – whichever is lower. So, with values going up, the city has to lower the rates to stay under the cap. This year the city council did just that, cutting the rate for the fourth time in five years. The rate will now be $.56 for each $100 of taxable home value.
Houston Independent School District
The Houston ISD Board lowered the tax rate as well. The new tax rate for Houston ISD is $1.1367 per $100 of taxable value. The previous rate was $1.2067.
Harris County Property Taxes
Harris County is scheduled to vote on a proposed property tax hike. The proposal would take the rates from $.62998 to $.65260 per $100 of valuation. The final vote on the proposal is scheduled to take place on October 8th 2019. Some commissioners who are opposed may block the proposed increase by not showing up for the vote. With property values on the rise, the new tax rate could mean as much as a 10% increase in cost for some property owners.
While we all await the final property tax rates for the year, we encourage you to reach out to our team now if you feel your tax burden has been too high in recent years. One way to ensure fair taxation is to make sure your property valuation is as accurate as possible. If your valuation is higher than it should be, we are your best choice for a property tax appeal. Call today to learn more. 281-880-6500
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