Homestead exemption is a provision that allows a Texas homeowner to remove part of your home’s value from taxation, so they lower your taxes paid on the home.

Example: Your home appraised at $300,000, and you qualify for a $40,000 exemption (this is the amount mandated for school districts), you will pay school taxes on the home as if it was worth only $260,000. Taxing units have the option to offer an additional exemption of up to 20 percent of the total value.

Do I qualify for homestead exemption?

• Only a homeowner’s principal residence qualifies.
• The home’s owner must be an individual not a corporation or business entity
• Must be used as your principal residence on Jan. 1 of the tax year.

Bonus: If you are 65 or older or disabled, an exemption is effective as of Jan. 1 of the tax year the applicant qualifies for the homestead and applies to the entire tax year.

How do I apply for homestead exemption?

You can find the Homestead form by clicking this link once you download the form, all you have to do is fill it out and submit it along with any supporting documentation, to the appraisal district where your property is located.