Step-by-Step Guide to Protesting Property Taxes in Lubbock

Every spring, Lubbock County homeowners get their property appraisal notice from the Lubbock Central Appraisal District (LCAD)—and for many, it’s an unpleasant surprise.

But here’s the good news: you’re not stuck with that number. You have the legal right to protest your property taxes, and with the right strategy, it can make a real difference.

Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Watch for Your Notice
Appraisal notices usually arrive in April. They’ll list your home’s new assessed value, which determines how much you’ll owe in taxes.

If it seems too high compared to recent sales or the property’s actual condition, it’s worth appealing.

2. File Your Protest by the Deadline
You typically have until May 15th or 30 days from the date on your notice (whichever is later) to submit your protest.
You can file online at lcad.org, by mail, or in person. Don’t miss the deadline—late protests are almost never accepted.

3. Gather Your Evidence
This is where preparation pays off. You’ll need to show why your home’s appraised value should be lower.
Good supporting documents include:

• Comparable sales (ideally from the last 6–12 months)

• Photos showing deferred maintenance or needed repairs

• Contractor estimates for those repairs

• A copy of your prior appraisal or MLS data if available

When I help clients with protests, I pull up-to-date market data from our local MLS to back up claims—data the county doesn’t always have.

4. Attend Your Informal or Formal Hearing
After you file, you’ll receive a date for an informal review (often by phone or online). If it doesn’t resolve there, you can attend a formal hearing with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB).

Be clear, concise, and polite. You’re not arguing taxes—you’re arguing value.

5. Wait for the Results
If your protest succeeds, you’ll get a new appraised value and a revised tax bill. If not, you can appeal further—but most homeowners are satisfied with the initial reduction.

A Smart Local Tip:
Always keep proof of your home’s true market condition—especially if you’ve skipped recent upgrades. Documentation is your best weapon.

The process may sound tedious, but even a small value reduction can mean hundreds in annual savings.

In Lubbock, smart homeowners don’t just pay their taxes—they make sure they’re paying the right amount.

— Insights from Tess Hernandez, Realtor | Reside Real Estate