Waller County Appraisal District

If you believe the Waller County Appraisal District has overvalued your property, you have the right to formally protest that value. Understanding the process before the deadline is critical to protecting your tax liability.

Know Your Deadline

The protest deadline in Waller County is May 15, or 30 days after the date your appraisal notice was mailed — whichever is later. Missing this window forfeits your right to challenge the appraisal for that tax year, so mark the date on your notice immediately upon receiving it.

File Your Protest

To initiate a protest, contact the Waller County Appraisal District directly. You can reach them by phone at 979-921-0060 or visit their website at http://www.waller-cad.org for additional information. As of the current data available, there is no online filing portal for Waller County, which means protests must be submitted by mail or in person. Request a Notice of Protest form (Form 50-132) if you need a physical copy.

Prepare Your Evidence

The strength of your protest depends entirely on the evidence you bring. Useful documentation includes a recent independent appraisal, comparable sales data for similar properties in your neighborhood, photographs that document damage or condition issues, and any repair estimates for structural problems. The Appraisal Review Board (ARB) will weigh your evidence against the district's valuation methodology.

The Informal Hearing

Most protests begin with an informal meeting between the property owner and an appraisal district staff member. This is often where cases are resolved. Come prepared with organized documentation and a clear, factual argument about why the assessed value exceeds market value.

The Formal ARB Hearing

If the informal discussion does not produce a satisfactory result, your case proceeds to a formal ARB hearing. You will present your evidence before a panel, and the district will present theirs. The ARB issues a binding determination, though you retain the right to appeal further through binding arbitration or district court if necessary.

Chief Appraiser Becky Gurrola oversees the Waller County Appraisal District, and her office can answer procedural questions about the protest process.

1. What is the protest deadline for Waller County property taxes?

The deadline to file a property tax protest with the Waller County Appraisal District is May 15, or 30 days after the date printed on your appraisal notice — whichever date falls later. If you do not receive a notice but believe your value has changed, you still have the right to protest by the May 15 deadline. Acting early gives you more time to gather evidence and schedule hearings.

2. How do I file a protest with the Waller County Appraisal District?

Because Waller County does not currently offer an online filing portal, protests must be submitted by mail or delivered in person to the Waller County Appraisal District. You can call the district at 979-921-0060 or visit http://www.waller-cad.org to confirm current submission procedures and office hours. Written protests should clearly identify the property in question and state the basis for your disagreement with the assessed value.

3. What homestead exemption is available in Waller County?

Waller County offers a General Residence Homestead exemption of $140,000 or 20% — whichever is greater — applied against your property's assessed value for qualifying residential properties. Additionally, homeowners who are 65 or older, or who qualify as disabled persons, are eligible for an additional $200,000 exemption. These exemptions can substantially reduce the taxable value of your home and should be applied for as soon as you establish primary residency.

4. Are there exemptions available for veterans in Waller County?

Yes. Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability rating between 10% and 100% may qualify for a $5,000 exemption on their property in Waller County. This exemption is separate from the homestead exemption and can be applied in addition to it. Veterans should contact the Waller County Appraisal District at 979-921-0060 to confirm eligibility requirements and obtain the appropriate application forms.

Since Waller County does not offer an online protest filing portal, preparation and timely action are especially important. Here is what to keep in mind as you move through the process.

Contact the District Early

Reach out to the Waller County Appraisal District at 979-921-0060 or through their website at http://www.waller-cad.org as soon as you receive your appraisal notice. Early contact allows you to confirm the correct mailing address for written protests, ask about scheduling, and clarify any procedural questions before the May 15 deadline approaches.

Put Your Protest in Writing

Because there is no electronic submission option, your written protest letter carries significant weight. Clearly state the property address, your account number from the appraisal notice, and the specific reason you believe the value is incorrect. Keep a copy of everything you send and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

Gather Comparable Sales Data

One of the most persuasive forms of evidence before the ARB is recent sales data for comparable properties in your area. Look for homes with similar square footage, age, condition, and lot size that sold within the past 12 months at values lower than your assessed value. Public records and county deed filings are useful sources.

Document Property Condition

If your property has physical issues — foundation concerns, roof damage, outdated systems — photograph them thoroughly and obtain written repair estimates before your hearing. The ARB responds to documented, factual evidence more than general assertions.

Verify Your Exemptions Are Applied

Before your hearing, confirm with the Waller County Appraisal District that all applicable exemptions — including the General Residence Homestead, Over-65, or Disabled Veteran exemptions — are already reflected in your assessed value. An unapplied exemption can be corrected separately and may resolve your concern without a formal protest.