What Is the Texas Homestead Exemption?
The Texas homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence, lowering your annual property tax bill. Since 2023, the general homestead exemption was increased to $100,000 off your home's appraised value for school district taxes. Additional exemptions apply for seniors (65+), disabled veterans, and surviving spouses.
How Much Does the Austin Homestead Exemption Save?
For a $450,000 home in Travis County:
| Without Exemption | With Exemption |
|---|---|
| Taxable value: $450,000 | Taxable value: $350,000 |
| School tax (~1.17%): $5,265 | School tax: $4,095 |
| Annual savings: ~$1,170 |
Additional county and city exemption percentages can push total savings to $1,500–$2,500 per year depending on your area.
Homestead Exemption by County (Austin Metro)
| County | General Exemption | Tax Rate Range |
|---|---|---|
| Travis County | $100,000 off appraisal (school) | 1.7%–2.2% |
| Williamson County | $100,000 off appraisal (school) | 1.6%–2.0% |
| Hays County | $100,000 off appraisal (school) | 1.7%–2.1% |
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Texas homestead exemption:
- You must own the property
- The property must be your primary residence as of January 1 of the tax year
- You must not claim a homestead exemption on any other property in Texas or elsewhere
- You must be a Texas resident
You cannot claim the exemption on investment properties, vacation homes, or properties you own but don't live in as your primary residence.
How to File in Travis County (Austin Proper)
Travis Central Appraisal District (TCAD)
Step 1: Download Form 50-114 (Residence Homestead Exemption Application) from traviscad.org or pick it up in person at 850 E Anderson Lane, Austin TX 78752.
Step 2: Complete the form with:
- Your name and driver's license number (must match address on file)
- Property address and legal description
- Date you began occupying the property
- Any additional exemptions (over 65, disabled, veteran)
Step 3: Attach a copy of your Texas driver's license or state ID showing the property address. If your ID has a different address, you must update your license first OR attach supporting documentation.
Step 4: Submit by mail or in person to TCAD. The deadline is April 30 of the tax year (for January 1 ownership). Late applications are accepted through the following January 31 with reduced benefit.
No filing fee is required.
How to File in Williamson County (Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown)
Williamson Central Appraisal District (WCAD)
Same Form 50-114 process. Submit to:
Williamson Central Appraisal District
625 FM 1460, Georgetown TX 78626
Filing deadline: April 30
How to File in Hays County (Kyle, Buda, San Marcos)
Hays Central Appraisal District
Submit Form 50-114 to:
Hays Central Appraisal District
21001 N IH 35, Kyle TX 78640
Additional Exemptions Available in Texas
Over 65 Exemption
- Additional $10,000 off school district taxable value
- School taxes are frozen at the level when you first qualify (they cannot increase)
- Available the year you turn 65
Disabled Veteran Exemptions
Texas offers some of the most generous disabled veteran property tax exemptions in the country:
| Disability Rating | Exemption |
|---|---|
| 10%–29% | $5,000 off appraisal |
| 30%–49% | $7,500 off appraisal |
| 50%–69% | $10,000 off appraisal |
| 70%–99% | $12,000 off appraisal |
| 100% or Individual Unemployability | 100% exempt (no property taxes) |
Veterans with a 100% disability rating pay zero property taxes in Texas on their primary residence. This is one of the most valuable veteran benefits in the state.
Surviving Spouse Exemption
The surviving spouse of a disabled veteran who received the 100% exemption may continue to receive the exemption as long as they remain unmarried and occupy the property.
Property Tax Protest in Austin TX
If you believe your Travis County appraisal is too high, you have the right to protest. The protest deadline is May 15 (or 30 days after you receive your appraisal notice, whichever is later).
You can protest online at traviscad.org or hire a property tax consultant (who typically works on a contingency fee — no savings, no fee). Many Austin homeowners protest every year and achieve reductions.
Frequently Asked Questions
April 30 of the tax year. Late filings are accepted through January 31 of the following year with prorated benefit.
Yes. Once filed, it stays in effect until you sell, move, or eligibility changes. You do not need to re-file annually.
