Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) was established in 1980 to discover and appraise property for ad valorem tax purposes in Harris County, Texas. It is the largest appraisal district in Texas and one of the largest in the United States, managing approximately 1.9 million parcels with a total market value of $905 billion. The district serves over 600 taxing units in Harris County, which is the third-largest county by population in the country.
HCAD offers digital and community-focused services, including an Online Services Platform where property owners can file protests, submit renditions, apply for exemptions, and search property records. It also runs Educational Workshops and a Speakers Bureau for public outreach, alongside a Taxpayer Liaison Officer to assist residents with appraisal concerns.
The organization's work centers on transparency, fairness, and customer service, aiming to provide uniform appraisals and accessible support for the community in Houston and broader Harris County.
