What is a homestead exemption?
Homestead exemptions remove part of your home’s value from taxation, so they lower your taxes. For example, if your home is appraised at $100,000, and you qualify for a $20,000 exemption, you would pay taxes as if the home was only worth $80,000.
Do all homes qualify for a homestead exemption?
No, only a homeowner’s principal residence qualifies. To qualify, a home must meet the definition of a residence homestead. Which includes a separate structure, condominium or manufactured homes located on owned or leased land, up to 20 acres, and as long as the individual living in the home owns it.
What type of homestead exemptions are available?
Exemptions are available for school taxes, county taxes, those that are disabled, 65 years and older, or 100% disabled veterans.
What is the deadline for filing for a homestead exemption?
Homestead exemption applications should be submitted between January 1 and April 30. Note, you can file for a homestead exemption up to two years after the delinquency date, which is normally February 1.
What do I need to apply for a homestead exemption?
To apply, you must complete your county’s application for homestead exemption and provide a copy of your driver’s license or state-issued personal identification certificate.
Click on the links below for additional information and resources when applying for homestead exemption based on your county in the Greater Houston Area.
Brazoria County
- Fort Bend County Appraisal District Information
- Fort Bend County Home Stead Exemption Information
- Fort Bend County Homestead Exemption Forms
Galveston County
Harris County
- Harris County Appraisal District Information
- Harris County Home Stead Exemption Information
- Harris County Homestead Exemption Forms
Montgomery County
- Montgomery County Appraisal District Information
- Montgomery County Home Stead Exemption Information
- Montgomery County Homestead Exemption Forms
Waller County
- Waller County Appraisal District Information
- Waller County Home Stead Exemption Information
- Waller County Homestead Exemption Forms