Texas Homestead Exemption Guide: Eligibility and Application Process

Texas lawmakers continue efforts to lower property taxes, but the state still ranks among the highest in the nation for effective property tax rates, leaving many homeowners with steep bills.

One of the most common ways to lower your tax bill is through a homestead exemption, which lowers the taxable value of a primary residence and can reduce how much a homeowner owes each year.

A general residential homestead exemption applies only to your primary residence and can also limit how much a home's taxable value can increase from one year to the next.

Some homeowners may also qualify for additional exemptions, depending on age, disability or financial situation.

A general residential homestead exemption is available to taxpayers who own and reside at a property as of January 1 of the tax year, according to the Travis Center Appraisal District. However, some homeowners may be eligible for a pro-rated homestead exemption on properties that become their principal residence during the year.

You generally qualify for a homestead exemption if:

• You own and live in the home as your primary residence
• The home was your residence as of Jan. 1 of the tax year
• You do not claim a homestead exemption on another property
• Your Texas driver's license or state ID lists the same address

Additional exemptions may be available if you are 65 or older, disabled, a disabled veteran or a qualifying surviving spouse.

How to apply for a homestead exemption

Property owners must apply for an exemption with their local appraisal district. The application deadline in most Texas counties is April 30, though cutoffs usually extend to the following Monday if that date falls on a weekend.

In Travis County and many other Texas counties, property owners can submit exemption applications online, by mail or in person.

Texas law allows appraisal districts to go back two years to grant a homestead exemption, so even if a property owner misses a deadline, they're encouraged to apply, as they are likely to receive backdated benefits and refunds.

State statute also now requires appraisal districts to audit exemptions every five years; if they cannot confirm that a property owner continues to qualify, they will contact you.

Travis County residents with exemption-related questions can call the Travis County Appraisal District's dedicated helpline during normal business hours at (512) 873-1560.

Recent changes to Texas homestead exemptions

Last November, Texas voters overwhelmingly approved a proposition that increased the exemption for school district property taxes to $140,000. Previously, this exemption was $100,000.

In 2023, state legislators proposed a constitutional amendment—which voters approved—limiting assessed tax value increases to 20 percent annually for properties valued at under $5 million.