Understanding the Texas Homestead Exemption
A residence homestead exemption may reduce the taxable value of a qualifying Texas homeowner’s primary residence. This guide explains the basic requirements, documents you may need and where to submit your application.
Texas homeowners apply through the appraisal district for the county where their property is located. There is no state filing fee. Because requirements can vary according to the property and exemption requested, always review the current application and your county appraisal district’s instructions.
Who May Qualify?
Owners and Occupants
Generally, you must own the property and use it as your principal residence. A person may not claim more than one residence homestead exemption.
Qualifying Property
A qualifying residence may include a house, condominium, manufactured home or another eligible residential structure, together with qualifying land.
Additional Exemptions
Additional benefits may be available for homeowners who are age 65 or older, have a qualifying disability, or meet certain veteran or surviving-spouse requirements.
County Verification
The local appraisal district reviews applications and determines eligibility. Contact that office if your ownership, occupancy or identification documents involve special circumstances.
What You May Need
- A completed Texas Residence Homestead Exemption Application, Form 50-114.
- The property’s address and appraisal-district account information.
- A copy of the applicant’s Texas driver license or state identification card.
- Supporting documents required for any additional exemption requested.
- Any affidavit or documentation requested for a special ownership situation.
Review the current form carefully. Your appraisal district may request additional information, particularly when the identification address does not match the property address or the home is held through another qualifying ownership arrangement.
How to Apply for a Texas Homestead Exemption
Find the Correct Appraisal District
Locate the appraisal district for the county where the home is situated. Property-tax questions and exemption applications are handled locally.
Complete Form 50-114
Enter the ownership, occupancy and property information requested. Select every exemption for which you believe you may qualify.
Attach the Required Documents
Include the identification and supporting documents listed on the current form. Missing information may delay the appraisal district’s decision.
Submit the Application
Follow your county appraisal district’s instructions for online, mailed or in-person filing. Keep a copy of the completed application and confirmation.
Watch for Follow-Up
Respond promptly if the appraisal district requests additional information. Then review future appraisal notices to confirm that approved exemptions appear.
Important Filing Information
The Texas Comptroller states that the general deadline for filing an exemption application is before May 1. However, other filing provisions may apply, including certain late applications. Apply promptly and contact your appraisal district for guidance about your property and filing year.
Filing directly with the appraisal district is free. Be cautious of businesses that charge homeowners to submit a standard exemption application that can be completed without a paid service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I submit the application to the Texas Comptroller?
No. Submit it to the appraisal district for the county where the property is located. The Comptroller provides statewide forms and general information.
Is there a fee to apply?
Appraisal districts do not charge a fee to file a residence homestead exemption application.
Do I have to reapply every year?
Usually not, unless the chief appraiser requests a new application or your eligibility changes. Follow any notice sent by your appraisal district.
What if I am a disabled veteran?
Texas provides property-tax exemptions for qualifying disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. The correct application depends on the exemption requested.
Veterans seeking the general disabled-veteran exemption under Texas Tax Code Section 11.22 generally use Texas Form 50-135, Disabled Veteran’s or Survivor’s Exemption Application . Veterans applying for the 100% disabled-veteran residence homestead exemption generally use Form 50-114. Confirm the correct form and supporting documents with your county appraisal district.
Can Keith and Sheila determine whether I qualify?
We can direct you to the appropriate official resources. However, eligibility decisions are made by the appraisal district, and legal or tax questions should be discussed with that office or a qualified professional.