Exemptions, late homestead applications and protests
Lowering what you owe: the homestead exemption, extra exemptions, applying late, and protesting next year’s value.
General information, not legal advice. Techoclaro is not a law firm, not the tax office and not connected to any taxing unit. For your situation, talk to free legal aid or a lawyer.
The homestead exemption
If you own and live in the home as your principal residence, school districts must exempt $140,000 of its appraised value; other taxing units may add more. Apply to the appraisal district with Form 50-114 and a Texas ID showing the property address.
[Tex. Tax Code §§ 11.13(b), 11.43(a)]
65+, disabled and disabled veterans
Owners 65 or older or disabled get another $60,000 off the school value. A veteran with a 100% VA disability rating (or individual unemployability) owes no property tax on the homestead.
[Tex. Tax Code §§ 11.13(c), 11.131(b)]
Applying late
The appraisal district must accept a late homestead application filed up to two years after the delinquency date for those taxes. If approved, the tax on the exempt amount is taken off the bill or refunded.
[Tex. Tax Code § 11.431]
Protesting the value
A protest goes to the appraisal review board by May 15 or 30 days after your value notice, whichever is later. It does not pause a delinquent bill, but it can make next year’s bill smaller.
[Tex. Tax Code § 41.44(a)(1)]