Taxes & Closing Costs

Ad Valorem Tax

A property tax based on the appraised value of real estate, set as of January 1 and paid in arrears in Texas.

Quick flashcard

What does Ad Valorem Tax mean on the Texas real estate exam?

Answer: A property tax based on the appraised value of real estate, set as of January 1 and paid in arrears in Texas.

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Ad Valorem Tax definition

Ad valorem means according to value. An ad valorem tax is a property tax based on the appraised value of the real estate, determined by the county appraisal district as of January 1 each year. Texas has no state income tax, so local property taxes are a primary source of local funding.

In Texas these taxes are paid in arrears, and the bill is figured by dividing the taxable value by 100 and multiplying by the combined rate per 100. Each taxing unit, such as the county, school district, and city, sets its own rate.

Source basis

Definition checked against the official sources below on .

On the exam

Ad valorem taxes are value-based, appraised as of January 1, and paid in arrears. Texas rates are stated per 100 of value.

Exam trap

Ad valorem is based on value, unlike a special assessment, which is based on the benefit a property receives.

Tested in

Real Estate Math (7 of 80 National)

From definition to recall

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This definition is Texas real estate exam-prep education, not legal, tax, or professional advice. Verify current rules against the official source before relying on them for a real transaction. Back to the full glossary.