Real Estate - Amy Beyer

What is a Homestead Exemption?

Reduces Taxable Value

Property taxes represent one of the most significant sources of tax-based revenue for the state of Texas. Each county has an appraisal district responsible for assigning a value to property within its boundaries and collecting taxes based on that valuation.

An exemption allows an owner to reduce the taxable value of their property under certain conditions, thus lowering their property tax bill.

How Much Reduction?

Several different entities in each county typically impose appraisal-based taxes, including school districts, individual cities, and certain special districts like flood control or MUD's.

The most common of these tax reductions is the residence homestead exemption whereby Texas mandates a $100,000 exemption on school district taxes for qualifying properties.

Other Exemptions

Additional exemptions are available for seniors over 65, disabled persons, military veterans, and surviving spouses.

For more information on all of the available exemptions visit the Texas Comptroller's page at Texas Property Tax Exemptions and FAQ.

How to File a Homestead Exemption

Complete an Application

If the home you purchased is your primary residence, you can apply for a homestead exemption at any time.

You can download an application from your county's Appraisal District website or you can use the Texas Comptroller's general application by clicking here.

Gather Paperwork

You'll need three things to file for the initial homestead exemption:

1. Application

2. Copy of a valid TX Drivers License showing the address of the primary residence

3. Copy of the recorded deed

Upload Online

Most of the larger counties in the DFW Metroplex allow you to file online, but not all do.

Be sure to visit your county's Central Appraisal District website to learn more about how they accept exemption applications (online, mail, fax or in-person).

Where To File

Most counties in the DFW Metroplex allow you to file online, but not all do.

Be sure to visit your county's Central Appraisal District website to learn more about filing for an exemption.

Collin County

collincad.org

469/742-9200

Dallas County

dallascad.org

214/631-0910

Denton County

dentoncad.com

940/349-3800