Houston

TAX & LICENSE

 

Newcomers to Texas can look forward to a high quality of life in a state with no personal income tax, no state property taxes, and no unitary tax. Even local property taxes are relatively low. For assistance with tax-related issues or answers to questions about taxes in Texas, contact:

 

Comptroller of Public Accounts

www.window.state.tx.us/taxes

 

Sales Tax

 

The Texas sales tax rate is 6.25 percent, although local sales and use taxes imposed by local jurisdictions include cities, counties, special purpose districts, and transit authorities. In general, the combined rate cannot exceed 2 percent, which makes 8.25 percent the highest rate. The rate for the City of Houston is 8.25 percent (1 percent city tax and 1 percent transit authority tax). The following website offers information on local tax rates:

 

Local Sales & Use Tax Rate Information

www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/sales/index.html

 

Gasoline Tax

 

Fuels used to operate motor vehicles are taxed at a rate of 20 cents per gallon. These include gasoline, liquefied petroleum, and diesel.

 

Property Taxes

 

Also known as "ad valorem" taxes, property taxes are locally assessed. The county appraisal district appraises the property; local taxing units set the tax rates and collect property taxes based on appraised values. Local taxing units such as city, county, school, and special districts prepare a budget and set tax rates high enough to raise sufficient funds.

 

The property tax year goes through four stages: appraisal of property, protesting appraisals, formulating tax rates, and collecting the taxes. Property owners over 65 years of age and owners who are totally disabled can claim certain exemptions. For more information, contact your county tax officials.

Voter Registration

 

Texas voters must be at least 18 years of age, a resident of the state, a U.S. citizen, and be registered at least 30 days prior to an election. Qualified new residents of Texas can register immediately, although a 30-day processing period occurs before registration is effective. It is possible to register by mail; both the application and postage are free of charge. The Texas Elections Division provides general assistance on voter registration and election issues online and through its toll-free number:

 

Secretary of State

Elections Division

800-252-VOTE (8683)

www.sos.state.tx.us/elections

 

If you move within the state, you must re-register and notify your local Voter Registrar. As long as you keep the same address, you will be permanently registered to vote. Every two years, voters receive a registration certificate. Any errors should be reported to the County Tax Assessor/Collector's Office. This office is responsible for voter registration on a local level and will provide answers to questions or more information:

 

Pet Licensing

 

Complete information on leash laws, rabies immunization requirements, and dog/cat licenses is available from the Animal Control Department in each county.

 

Boat & Outboard Motor Licensing

 

All motorboats and all sailboats 14 feet in length or longer operated on public waters or docked, moored, or stored on public water must be currently registered. All outboard motors must be titled. Title applications and manufacturers statement of origin (MSO) must accompany a request for boat registration for new boats and/or outboard motors. For more information, contact:

 

Texas Parks & Wildlife

Austin

512-389-4800

Toll free

800-792-1112

www.tpwd.state.tx.us/boat

 

Fishing Licenses

 

Only those under age 17 or born before September 1, 1930 are able to fish in public waters without a license in Texas. However, the first Saturday in June of each year is the annual Free Fishing Day. No one is required to have a fishing license or stamps on that special day. Resident fishing licenses are available for $19. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces on active duty and their dependents ARE considered as residents for licensing purposes.

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