You Can Fight Your Appraisal Every Year

Each year the Dallas Central Appraisal District mails a notice of appraised value. If you think it is too high, you can file a protest. The deadline is May 15, or 30 days from the date on your notice, whichever is later. DCAD runs an online protest system (uFile) for many accounts, so you can often file and even settle informally without a hearing. DCAD is at 2949 N. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, 214-631-0910.

If you do not settle informally, the Dallas County Appraisal Review Board (ARB) is an independent panel that hears your case. You do not need a lawyer; a written statement explaining your disagreement is enough to start. If you lose at the ARB, you can pursue binding arbitration through the Comptroller or file in Dallas County district court. Check dallascad.org for current protest procedures and the uFile login.