Texas is one of the few states that has no personal income tax. Instead, most local governing entities rely on property taxes, and to a lesser extent, sales tax.
Property Tax Rates
Property values are set in a four-stage process each year by the Jefferson County Appraisal District, which also administers tax exemptions. Port Arthur has property tax exemptions for homeowners and senior citizens. For information on appraisals and exemptions, call (409) 727-4611 or visit the JCAD web site, www.jcad.org, which also has a searchable property database.
Most governing entities in Texas levy a property tax with an assessment ratio of 100 percent. These taxes are collected through the Jefferson County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office. Taxpayers can view their property tax balance and make payments online. More information can be found at www.co.jefferson.tx.us/taxoffice/main.htm.
Property Tax Rates are as follows:
| Entity | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Port Arthur Independent School District | $1.353480 |
| City of Port Arthur | $.79 |
| Jefferson County | $.425 |
| Drainage District #7 | $.179 |
| Port of Port Arthur | $.12815 |
| TOTAL | |
| Property Tax Rates per $100/valuation | $3.18815 |
Sales Tax Rates
The State of Texas and other entities levy a sales tax on items that are considered non-essential. In addition, many cities and counties in the state have approved a half-cent sales tax to fund Economic Development Corporations. Port Arthur and the other cities in Jefferson County have such EDCs. Port Arthur’s EDC funds manufacturing and industrial-related projects. The Texas State Comptroller has more information at www.window.state.tx.us/m23taxes.html.