Did your Plano appraisal jump this year, or are you just trying to budget smarter for next year’s tax bill? You are not alone. Property taxes in Collin County can feel complex, especially when appraised values, exemptions, and tax rates all move. In this guide, you’ll learn how your bill is built, key deadlines to watch, which exemptions can lower your taxes, and what to do if you disagree with your value. Let’s dive in.
Property tax basics in Collin County
Your property’s value is set as of January 1 each year. The Collin Central Appraisal District (CCAD) determines your market, or appraised, value. Taxable value is your appraised value minus any approved exemptions. Multiple taxing units then apply their tax rates to that taxable value.
Common taxing units for Plano homes include the school district, the City of Plano, Collin County, and sometimes special districts. School taxes are often the largest part of your total bill. Because each unit sets its own rate, your total taxes can change even if your value stays the same.
To check your property record, exemptions, and protest steps, use the official tools on the Collin Central Appraisal District site. For a plain-English overview of Texas property tax rules, see the Texas Comptroller’s property tax guide.
Who taxes Plano homes
- School district taxes, typically the largest share of most bills.
- City of Plano taxes for municipal services and operations.
- Collin County taxes for county-level services.
- Special districts, such as hospital, college, road, or a municipal utility district (MUD) in some neighborhoods.
You can review city budget and tax information on the City of Plano website, and you can confirm billing, payment methods, and delinquency rules with the Collin County Tax Office.
Your yearly tax timeline
- January 1: Appraised value “as of” date used for the entire tax year.
- Late March to May: CCAD mails appraisal notices. If you disagree, you can file a protest.
- Protest deadline: Typically May 15 or within 30 days of the notice mailing date, whichever is later. Always confirm the current year’s deadline on CCAD’s site.
- Late summer to fall: Taxing units adopt budgets and set tax rates.
- Fall (often October–November): Tax statements are mailed by the county tax office.
- January 31: Taxes are generally due. Payments after this date become delinquent and can trigger penalties and interest. Check payment options on the Collin County Tax Office page.
Exemptions that lower taxable value
Exemptions reduce the taxable value used to calculate your bill. They do not change your market value, but they can lower what you pay.
- Homestead exemption: For your primary residence. This is the most common and can meaningfully reduce school taxes. Apply through CCAD.
- Over-65 and disabled homeowner exemptions: Provide added reductions and can cap the school portion of your taxes with a tax ceiling. City or county benefits may also apply.
- Disabled veteran exemptions: Additional reductions for qualified veterans. Requirements and amounts vary.
You can find forms and instructions on the Collin Central Appraisal District website. For statewide definitions and rules, see the Texas Comptroller’s guidance on exemptions.
How to read and respond to your appraisal notice
When you receive your Notice of Appraised Value from CCAD, do three things right away:
- Verify property details
- Check square footage, lot size, year built, and property features. Errors can affect value.
- Compare with market evidence
- Review recent comparable sales and any condition issues. If you see a mismatch, you may have a case to protest.
- Decide whether to protest
- File by the deadline listed on your notice. The state rule is generally May 15 or 30 days from the mailing date, whichever is later. File online or by mail following CCAD protest instructions.
What to include in a protest
- Recent comparable sales in your area.
- Photos showing condition, needed repairs, or deferred maintenance.
- Corrected facts, such as a recent survey or appraisal.
- Permits or contractor estimates that explain condition or improvements.
Many protests are resolved informally with CCAD. If not, you will have a hearing with the Appraisal Review Board (ARB). If you disagree with the ARB decision, you may have further appeal options in state processes or district court. Each step has costs and deadlines, so read the instructions carefully on the CCAD site.
Estimating your Plano property tax bill
Your estimated tax equals your taxable value multiplied by the sum of all adopted tax rates. To make a quick estimate, start with last year’s bill as a baseline, then adjust for any changes in your appraised value or exemptions.
- Check your current appraised and taxable values on CCAD’s property search.
- Watch for fall budget and rate notices from the City of Plano and other taxing units.
- Remember that new construction or renovations usually raise value, while market shifts can push values up or down.
Because rates and values change every year, estimates are just that—estimates. Confirm your final bill when the county mails tax statements in the fall.
Paying your bill and avoiding penalties
The Collin County Tax Office issues tax statements, usually in October or November. The standard due date is January 31. Payments after that date become delinquent, with penalties and interest set by law. For payment methods and any installment options, review the Collin County Tax Office information.
If your mortgage has an escrow account, your servicer usually pays the bill from escrow. Still, you should:
- Confirm your servicer received the bill and plans to pay.
- Watch for escrow adjustments if your tax amount changes year to year.
- Keep your own copy of the paid receipt for records.
Buyers and sellers: how taxes show up at closing
Property taxes are prorated between buyer and seller based on the closing date. Title companies typically order a tax certificate to confirm the current year’s status and any unpaid amounts. If there is an escrow account, the servicer will pay once the bill is issued, and you should receive proof of payment.
If you buy a home that had a homestead exemption, it does not automatically transfer. If you will occupy the property as your primary residence, file your own homestead application with CCAD for the next eligible tax year. For new construction or homes in growth areas, ask whether a MUD or other special district applies, since that can affect your total tax load.
Practical tips for Plano homeowners
- Review your appraisal notice as soon as it arrives in spring.
- File your homestead and any other eligible exemptions with CCAD.
- Keep photos and repair records that document condition.
- Track fall budget meetings and rate adoptions from your taxing units on the City of Plano site and other official pages.
- Verify escrow activity with your mortgage servicer and keep receipts.
A trusted guide for Plano taxes and moves
Understanding property taxes helps you plan, negotiate, and avoid surprises at closing. Whether you are preparing to buy in Plano or getting a current home ready to sell, a clear tax strategy can protect your budget and timeline. If you want a local, detail-driven plan for exemptions, protests, and closing prep, let’s talk.
Connect with Suzanne Millet-Realtor for a one-on-one strategy session, and get market-smart guidance for your next move.
FAQs
What should a Plano homeowner know about the protest deadline?
- In Collin County, you typically must file by May 15 or within 30 days of the notice mailing date, whichever is later, so confirm the exact date on the CCAD site.
How do homestead exemptions work for Plano homes?
- A homestead exemption reduces your taxable value on your primary residence and is applied through CCAD, with additional protections possible for school taxes.
Where do I pay Collin County property taxes?
- The Collin County Tax Office mails bills in the fall and lists payment options and delinquency rules on its official website.
Does my mortgage escrow guarantee my taxes get paid on time?
- Escrow servicers usually pay from your account, but you should verify they received the bill, know the amount, and will pay by January 31.
What if I disagree with my Appraisal Review Board decision?
- You may have further appeal options through state processes or district court, each with specific deadlines and procedures explained on CCAD’s site.
Do renovations or additions always increase my taxes?
- Improvements typically raise appraised value, which can increase taxes, while market shifts and exemptions can offset some of the impact.
How can I estimate my Plano taxes before I buy?
- Review last year’s bill, check current appraised and taxable values on CCAD, and factor in the latest adopted rates from each taxing unit for an informed estimate.
