If you believe your property in Denton County has been overvalued or inaccurately appraised, you have the right to file a protest with the Denton Central Appraisal District (DCAD). Filing a protest can help ensure you pay a fair amount in property taxes. Follow this guide to navigate the process.
Step 1: Review Your Notice of Appraised Value
Each year, the Denton Central Appraisal District (DCAD) sends out a Notice of Appraised Value to property owners. This notice provides your property’s appraised value and instructions for filing a protest.
The deadline to file a protest is usually May 15 or 30 days after the notice is mailed, whichever is later. Filing after the deadline forfeits your right to protest, so act quickly.
Step 2: Gather Evidence to Support Your Case
To build a strong protest, prepare evidence that demonstrates your property is overvalued. Useful evidence includes:
• Comparable Sales Data: Prices of similar properties sold recently in your area.
• Independent Appraisals: A professional appraisal with a lower valuation.
• Condition Reports: Photos or documentation of property damage or defects.
Solid evidence increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
Step 3: File Your Protest
DCAD allows property owners to file a protest online, by mail, or in person.
Option 1: File Online
DCAD’s Online Appeals System is the easiest and fastest way to file a protest. Visit www.dentoncad.com and log in using:
• Your Property ID Number (from your Notice of Appraised Value).
• Your Online PIN (also on the notice).
Follow the prompts to submit your protest.
Option 2: File by Mail
Complete the Notice of Protest Form (Form 50-132) and mail it to:
Denton Central Appraisal District
P.O. Box 2816
Denton, TX 76202-2816
Ensure the form is postmarked by the protest deadline.
Option 3: File In Person
You can also file your protest in person at the DCAD office:
Denton Central Appraisal District
3911 Morse Street
Denton, TX 76208
Step 4: Participate in the Hearing Process
Once you file a protest, DCAD will schedule your hearings:
1. Informal Meeting: Meet with a DCAD appraiser to discuss your evidence and negotiate a resolution.
2. Formal Hearing: If the informal meeting doesn’t resolve the dispute, your case will proceed to the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). During this hearing, both sides present evidence, and the ARB makes a final decision.
Step 5: Additional Options if Needed
If you disagree with the ARB’s decision, you can:
• Request Binding Arbitration through the Texas Comptroller’s office.
• File a lawsuit in district court for further review.
Both options involve extra costs, so weigh the potential savings against the expense.
Tips for a Successful Protest
• Be Organized: Keep all documents and communications related to your case.
• Start Early: Gathering evidence and filing your protest well before the deadline ensures you’re prepared.
• Stay Calm: Present your evidence professionally and respectfully during hearings.
Need Help?
For assistance, contact the Denton Central Appraisal District (DCAD):
• Phone: (940) 349-3800
• Website: www.dentoncad.com
• Office Address:
Denton Central Appraisal District
3911 Morse Street
Denton, TX 76208
By filing a timely and well-prepared protest, you can ensure that your property taxes reflect a fair valuation of your property. Don’t hesitate to challenge an appraisal if you believe it’s inaccurate!
