We've provided a helpful guide on filing your homestead exemption in Texas - a valuable tool for potential savings on your property taxes.

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What is a Homestead Exemption?

A homestead exemption is a valuable tax benefit that lowers your property taxes by reducing the taxable value of your home. These exemptions are issued by the county appraisal district that has jurisdiction over the property. If you own and occupy your home as your primary residence, you may qualify for a homestead exemption, potentially saving thousands of dollars each year on your property taxes.

Who Qualifies for a Homestead Exemption?

To qualify for a homestead exemption in Texas, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must own the property and use it as your primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year.
  • The home must be owned by an individual, not a corporation or business entity.
  • You cannot claim another property as your homestead.

Homestead exemptions are managed by county appraisal districts. Below are the appraisal district websites where you can find more information:

What is Considered a Homestead?

A homestead can be:

  • A separate structure (house)
  • A condominium
  • A manufactured home on owned or leased land (if the homeowner owns the home itself)

A homestead can include up to 20 acres if the land is owned by the homeowner and is used for residential purposes.

Types of Homestead Exemptions in Texas

There are several homestead exemptions that homeowners may qualify for, each designed to provide tax relief:

School Tax Exemption

  • Homeowners receive a $100,000 exemption on their home’s value for school taxes.
  • Example: If your home is valued at $400,000, the exemption reduces the taxable value to $300,000 for school taxes.

County Tax Exemption

  • If a county collects special taxes for farm-to-market roads or flood control, homeowners may receive a $3,000 exemption for these taxes.

Age 65 or Older & Disabled Exemptions

  • Homeowners aged 65 or older or disabled qualify for an additional $10,000 exemption for school taxes.

  • If you qualify for both exemptions, you must choose one—you cannot receive both.

Optional Percentage Exemptions

  • Any taxing unit (city, county, school district, or special district) may offer an exemption of up to 20% of a home’s value.

  • The minimum exemption amount is $5,000 regardless of percentage.

Optional Age 65 or Older or Disabled Exemptions

  • Some taxing units may provide an additional exemption of at least $3,000 for homeowners 65 or older or disabled.

When to File for a Homestead Exemption?

New laws allow homeowners to apply for a homestead exemption at any time during the year. However, to have the exemption apply for the current tax year, applications must be submitted by April 30. Applications submitted after April 30 will take effect the following year.

  • Homeowners must provide an updated driver’s license with the property address listed as the mailing address.
  • Once approved, the exemption automatically renews every year unless the chief appraiser requests an updated application.
  • If you move or your eligibility changes, you must notify the appraisal district in writing by May 1.

How to Apply for a Homestead Exemption?

To apply, you must submit an application along with all required supporting documents.

  • Applications can typically be filled out online or downloaded from your county’s appraisal district website.
  • You can mail your completed application to your county appraisal district:
  • Travis County: P.O. BOX 149012, Austin, TX 78714
  • Williamson County: 625 FM 460, Georgetown, TX 78626
  • Hays County: 21001 IH 35 North, Kyle, TX 78640
  • Bell County: P.O. Box 390, Belton, TX 76513

For more information, visit your local County Appraisal District website or contact them directly to ensure you take advantage of all available exemptions.

By applying for a homestead exemption, you can significantly lower your property taxes and protect your home from rising tax rates. Don’t miss out on this valuable benefit—file your application today!