Property Tax Deferral

Can you defer property taxes in Texas?  For Texans who have the 65-and-over exemption on their primary residence, the answer is yes.  Simply file the deferral documents with the county appraisal district and you’re all set.  You’ll still be assessed taxes each year, but you don’t need to pay them immediately.  You’ll also be assessed 5% interest on the balance each year.  Publicly, it’ll show that you are delinquent, but there will be no enforcement action against you.  You can defer for years if you like, simply increasing your ultimate tax bill.  So when is it due?  If you sell the house, you pay the bill at that time.  If you pass away and the house goes to your heirs, they have 181 days to pay the bill.  If you move out of the house but still maintain ownership, again it’s 181 days.  Now this is just a summary, so if you are interested in learning more, reach out to me or contact the appraisal district.  I’m certainly not going to say this is a good option for you, but it is a good option for some seniors.   I’m Craig Smyser with 1835 Realty.