Every spring, Dallas County homeowners receive appraisal notices, and many wonder whether their value is right. Texas gives property owners the right to protest. Here’s how the process works with the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD), so you’re ready when notices arrive.
Key deadlines
According to DCAD, the protest deadline is May 15 or 30 days after your Notice of Appraised Value was mailed, whichever is later. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, it moves to the next business day.
Late protests may be accepted only for good cause, meaning a reason beyond your control, such as a medical emergency. The Appraisal Review Board (ARB) decides.
How to file
- Online: DCAD’s uFile system opens in spring. In 2026 it was available from April 15 through May 15.
- By mail: postmarked by the deadline.
- In person: delivered to DCAD before the office closes on the deadline.
DCAD may offer a settlement before a formal hearing. You can accept it or continue to the ARB.
Evidence that helps
- Comparable sales: recent sales of similar homes near yours, ideally from around January 1 of the tax year
- Condition issues: photos and repair estimates for problems that lower value, such as foundation or roof damage
- Errors: incorrect square footage, room counts, or features on DCAD’s record
- Purchase price: if you bought recently, your closing documents may support your value
DCAD publishes standards for the documentation it accepts at hearings; review them before you file.
Homestead first. If you live in your home and haven’t filed a homestead exemption, do that too. Once your home qualifies, the appraised value used for taxes generally can’t rise more than 10% a year, plus new improvements (Texas Tax Code §23.23). See our homestead exemption guide.
What happens at the hearing
- You present your evidence to an ARB panel.
- The appraisal district presents its evidence.
- The panel decides the value and sends you a written order.
If you disagree with the ARB’s decision, the Texas Comptroller explains further options, such as binding arbitration or district court, which have their own deadlines and requirements.
How an agent can help
A comparative market analysis can show recent sales of similar homes in your area, which is useful evidence. Ask a Clever Realtors agent for recent comparable sales for your home.
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