The Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD, also called Travis CAD) sets the January 1 market value of property in Travis County, mails notices of appraised value, handles value protests, and administers exemption applications. TCAD does not calculate tax bills or take payments; the Travis County Tax Office does. TCAD is at 850 East Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752, phone 512-834-9317, online at traviscad.org.
I'm Taylor Ring, a Mortgage Loan Officer with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (The Wood Group) in Belton. I'm not affiliated with TCAD. A lot of the buyers I work with in Cedar Park and Leander are surprised to learn that their side of town may be in Travis County, not Williamson County, and that changes which appraisal district values the home and which tax office sends the bill. Everything below comes from traviscad.org, the Travis County Tax Office, and the Texas Comptroller, read October 24, 2026.
Buying in Austin, Cedar Park, or Leander? Get Pre-Approved or Book a Free Consultation.
TCAD and Tax Office Contacts
| Office | Address | Phone | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travis Central Appraisal District (values, exemptions, protests) | 850 East Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752 | 512-834-9317 | Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. |
| TCAD Exemption Helpline | Same as above | 512-873-1560 | Normal business hours |
| Travis County Tax Office, main office (bills and payments) | 2433 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX 78754 | 512-854-9473 | Property tax walk-in 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday |
| Travis County Tax Office, Northwest Austin | 8110 N FM 620 Road, Austin, TX 78726 | 512-854-9473 | Walk-in 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; drive-thru 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday to Friday |
Good to know:
- Note the shorter Tuesday and Thursday hours at TCAD, which opens at 9:00 a.m. those days.
- TCAD no longer accepts faxes. It takes U.S. mail, email (CSInfo@tcadcentral.org), and hand delivery. Its mailing address is P.O. Box 149012, Austin, TX 78714-9012.
- The tax office lobbies can close early when they reach capacity, and the Northwest Austin drive-thru handles only vehicle registration renewals, disabled placards, and property tax payments.
- TCAD's event calendar lists the office closed November 11, 2026, for Veterans Day.
Sources: TCAD contact page, the Travis County Tax Office locations page, and the Comptroller's Travis County directory.
Cedar Park and Leander: Check the County First
The Comptroller's county directories list the City of Cedar Park, the City of Leander, Leander ISD, and Round Rock ISD as active taxing units in both Williamson County and Travis County. In plain terms, some homes with a Cedar Park or Leander address are valued by TCAD, and others are valued by the Williamson Central Appraisal District.
Before you write an offer, I check:
- Which county the home is in. If it's in Williamson County, see my Williamson Central Appraisal District guide instead.
- Which school district. A Travis County home can be in Leander ISD, Round Rock ISD, Austin ISD, or another district, and each has its own rate and exemptions.
- Any MUD or special district on the account, since those add their own tax lines.
TCAD says property taxes in Travis County support 127 local government agencies, including 21 cities, 15 school districts, and 54 municipal utility districts. For city-level buying tips, see my guides to buying a home in Cedar Park and buying a home in Leander, and my Austin page.
What TCAD Does, and What It Doesn't
TCAD spells out who does what on its property tax system page.
TCAD (the appraisal district):
- Determines property values
- Sends out Notices of Appraised Value
- Handles protests
- Administers exemption and deferral applications
Your taxing entities (county, city, school district, and others): set budgets and tax rates.
The Travis County Tax Office: calculates and distributes tax bills and collects payments. TCAD's site says plainly that it "does not calculate or distribute property tax bills" and "does not accept property tax payments."
The Values on Your TCAD Record
TCAD's protest page explains the three values on a Notice of Appraised Value:
- Market value: what the property would sell for as of January 1
- Net appraised value: the reduced value after a homestead exemption limit or circuit breaker limitation
- Taxable value: net appraised value minus exemptions; this is what each taxing unit's rate is applied to
How to Look Up a Property on TCAD
- Go to traviscad.org and click Property Search (or Map Search).
- Search by owner name, property address, account number, or DBA.
- Open the account to see values, exemptions, and taxing units.
TCAD's search tips: leave off street suffixes like St, Dr, or Ln; enter fewer words if nothing comes up; and if you don't know the street number, enter just the street name. TCAD also notes that current-year information "should be considered a work in progress."
What to Check on a Listing's Record
- Exemptions belong to the current owner. The seller's homestead exemption and capped value don't transfer to you.
- The 10% cap restarts with you. TCAD says a homestead's assessed value increase is limited to 10% a year, and you must own and live in the home for at least one calendar year (starting January 1) before the cap limits your value.
- Watch for a seller's over-65 exemption. TCAD's FAQ says an over-65 exemption stays on the property until the end of the year unless the previous owner asks to remove it, and if it's removed, the new owner's bill may be higher than estimated. TCAD suggests asking your title company how exemptions were handled at closing.
- Confirm your ownership after closing. TCAD updates owners from deeds recorded with the Travis County Clerk (512-854-9188). If TCAD's record doesn't show you 90 days after closing, call TCAD.
Filing Your Homestead Exemption with TCAD
There's no fee. TCAD says you don't have to pay anyone to file a homestead exemption.
How to file:
- Online through TCAD's homestead portal, which sends an email when your application is processed.
- On paper, by email, by mail to P.O. Box 149012, Austin, TX 78714-9012, or at TCAD's office drop box at 850 E. Anderson Ln.
What you need: a completed application plus a Texas driver's license or state-issued ID showing the property's address. TCAD's FAQ says it cannot accept a passport or concealed handgun license for this purpose.
When: if you just bought, TCAD says you can submit the form now and the homestead will be applied to the year you qualify. Under state law since 2022, you may be able to claim a pro-rated homestead from your move-in date if the previous owner didn't have a homestead exemption on the property and you aren't claiming one anywhere else. Comptroller Form 50-114 says the application is generally due by April 30, and late applications are allowed up to two years after the filing deadline. (TCAD's FAQ words it as two years after the date taxes become delinquent, so confirm your eligible years with TCAD if you're filing late.)
How long it takes: TCAD says it acts on applications within 90 days, and the homestead usually shows on its website 4 to 6 weeks after you submit. If you're denied, TCAD mails a written notice explaining why and how to appeal.
Do you reapply each year? No, unless the chief appraiser asks in writing, you move, or your qualifications change.
2026 Homestead Exemption Amounts for Common Taxing Units
From TCAD's 2026 Exemption Listing Report (generated July 19, 2026). A percentage exemption is a share of appraised value with the minimum shown.
| Taxing unit | General homestead | Over 65 | Disabled person |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin ISD | $140,000 | $60,000 state + $25,000 local | $60,000 state + $15,000 local |
| Leander ISD | $140,000 | $60,000 state + $3,000 local | $60,000 state + $3,000 local |
| Round Rock ISD | $140,000 | $60,000 state | $60,000 state + $3,000 local |
| Travis County | 20% (at least $5,000) | $145,269 | $145,269 |
| City of Austin | 20% (at least $5,000) | $204,000 | $204,000 |
| City of Cedar Park | 1% (at least $5,000) | $30,000 | $20,000 |
| City of Leander | 1% (at least $5,000) | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| Austin Community College | 1% (at least $5,000) | $75,000 | $75,000 |
The school amounts match Tax Code Section 11.13 as described by the Comptroller, which also says a local option homestead exemption can be up to 20% of appraised value and can't be less than $5,000. Over-65 and disabled homeowners also get a school tax ceiling, and TCAD explains the ceiling can increase if you add improvements like a garage or pool. Disabled veterans receive a separate exemption of $5,000 to $12,000 based on the VA rating, and a veteran rated 100% disabled or paid at 100% for individual unemployability can receive a total exemption on the homestead. My Texas disabled veteran property tax exemption guide covers the details, and the statewide steps are in how to file a homestead exemption in Texas and the Texas homestead exemption over 65.
How to Protest Your Travis County Appraisal
The Deadline
TCAD: file your protest by May 15 or 30 days after your Notice of Appraised Value is mailed, whichever is later. TCAD mails notices in April. If your value didn't go up by more than $1,000, you may not get a notice at all, so check the property search.
How to File
- Online (TCAD calls it the easiest and fastest way). You get an immediate confirmation, can upload evidence, review TCAD's evidence, and accept or decline a settlement offer. You set up the account with the property owner ID and PIN on your notice.
- By mail to Travis Central Appraisal District, PO Box 149012, Austin TX 78714.
- In person at 850 East Anderson Lane during business hours.
The Informal Meeting
After your protest and evidence are in, you're eligible for an informal meeting with a TCAD appraiser by phone or video. There's one informal meeting per property. You can schedule a time through the portal or join that day's queue without a login. TCAD says to expect a settlement offer within 10 business days after the discussion.
The Appraisal Review Board (ARB)
If you don't accept the offer, your protest goes to the Travis Appraisal Review Board, an independent citizen panel.
- Hearings are typically June through August and last 15 to 20 minutes.
- You'll get at least 15 days' notice of your hearing date and time.
- You can attend by phone or video, by written affidavit, or in person at TCAD's office if you request it.
- Bring 5 sets of your evidence to a formal hearing, per TCAD's FAQ.
- A Notice of Final Order arrives by certified mail about three to four weeks after the hearing.
Missed the deadline? TCAD says you can file late with good cause, such as a serious illness, up until the ARB approves the appraisal records in mid-July. Missed your hearing? You can ask the ARB Chairperson to reopen it by letter within 4 days, citing good cause.
If You Disagree With the ARB
TCAD says you can appeal through binding arbitration or District Court. The Comptroller explains a district court petition must be filed within 60 days of receiving the ARB's written order.
Travis County Property Tax Calendar
| When | What Happens | Source |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Property values are set | TCAD |
| Mid-April | Notices of Appraised Value sent | TCAD |
| May 15 (or 30 days after notice) | Protest deadline, whichever is later | TCAD |
| June through August | ARB hearings, typically | TCAD |
| July 25 | Appraisal roll certified | TCAD |
| August and September | Tax rates set | TCAD |
| October (around October 1) | Tax bills mailed; taxes due on receipt | TCAD |
| January 31 | Property tax payments due | TCAD |
| February 1 | Penalty and interest start on most unpaid bills | TCAD FAQ |
How TCAD Values Show Up in Your Payment
If you escrow, your property taxes are built into your monthly mortgage payment. The CFPB explains that when your taxes or insurance change, your escrow payment and total payment change too. Under 12 CFR 1024.17, servicers collect one-twelfth of estimated annual taxes and insurance each month, may hold a cushion of up to two months, and must let you repay a shortage of a month's payment or more over at least 12 months.
Hypothetical example: A buyer purchases a Leander ISD home in Travis County from a longtime owner who had the over-65 exemption and a school tax ceiling. The seller's bill was $3,000 a year ($250 a month). Built on full market value with only the buyer's own general homestead exemptions, the buyer's estimate is $6,600 a year ($550 a month). Budgeting on the seller's bill would have left the buyer about $300 a month short. Round illustrative numbers, not actual Travis County taxes.
My checklist for Travis County buyers:
- Confirm the county, school district, and any MUD on the TCAD record before you write an offer.
- Estimate taxes on full market value with your own exemptions. I do that in every estimate; see how much house can I afford in Texas.
- File your homestead as soon as your driver's license shows the new address.
- Plan for the escrow deposit at closing, covered in my closing costs in Texas guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Travis Central Appraisal District?
The Travis Central Appraisal District, or TCAD, determines the market value of property in Travis County as of January 1, sends Notices of Appraised Value, handles protests, and administers exemption applications. It does not calculate tax bills or accept payments. TCAD is at 850 East Anderson Lane in Austin, phone 512-834-9317.
Is Cedar Park or Leander in the Travis Central Appraisal District?
Partly. The Texas Comptroller lists the City of Cedar Park, the City of Leander, and Leander ISD as active taxing units in both Travis County and Williamson County. Homes on the Travis County side are valued by TCAD, while homes on the Williamson County side are valued by the Williamson Central Appraisal District.
How do I file a homestead exemption with Travis CAD?
Apply online through TCAD's homestead portal, or submit a paper application by email, by mail to P.O. Box 149012, Austin, TX 78714-9012, or at the office drop box at 850 E. Anderson Lane. Include a Texas driver's license or state ID showing the property address. There is no fee, and TCAD acts on applications within 90 days.
What is the Travis CAD protest deadline?
The deadline is May 15 or 30 days after TCAD mails your Notice of Appraised Value, whichever is later. You can file online with the owner ID and PIN on your notice, by mail, or in person. After an informal meeting by phone or video, unresolved protests go to the Travis Appraisal Review Board.
Who collects property taxes in Travis County?
The Travis County Tax Office calculates and mails tax bills and collects payments, not TCAD. Its main office is at 2433 Ridgepoint Dr in Austin, phone 512-854-9473, with other locations including Northwest Austin at 8110 N FM 620 Road. Bills go out around October 1 and are due by January 31.
Planning a Purchase in Travis County?
I'll check the county, school district, MUD, and exemptions on any home you're considering and build your estimate on the taxes you'll actually pay.
Get Pre-Approved | Book a Free Consultation
Related Guides
- Williamson Central Appraisal District Guide
- Buying a Home in Cedar Park
- Buying a Home in Leander
- Buying a Home in Austin
- How to File a Homestead Exemption in Texas
- Texas Homestead Exemption Over 65
- Closing Costs in Texas
Sources
- Travis Central Appraisal District: home page, contact, homestead exemptions, 2026 Exemption Listing Report, pro-rated homestead notice, property tax system, property search, the protest process, informal meetings, ARB hearings, and FAQs
- Travis County Tax Office: locations and contact
- Texas Comptroller: Travis County directory, Williamson County directory, Property Tax Exemptions, Appraisal Protests and Appeals, and Form 50-114
- CFPB escrow accounts and 12 CFR 1024.17
Taylor Ring, NMLS #2809683 | Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, NMLS #2289 | The Wood Group of Fairway, 127 Lake Rd Ste 300, Belton, TX 76513 | Equal Housing Opportunity. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines, and approval, rates, and program availability are not guaranteed. This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Travis Central Appraisal District, the Travis Appraisal Review Board, the Travis County Tax Office, the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, or any government agency. Contact TCAD directly for official values, deadlines, and exemption decisions.