Key Changes to Texas Homestead Exemptions in 2025

In 2025, Texas has enacted significant changes to its homestead exemption laws, aiming to provide enhanced property tax relief for homeowners. Understanding these updates and knowing how to apply for or verify your homestead exemption is crucial for both current and prospective homeowners.

Key Changes to Texas Homestead Exemptions in 2025

1. Increased Exemption Amount: The general residence homestead exemption has been increased from $40,000 to $100,000. This change allows homeowners to exempt a larger portion of their property's appraised value from school district property taxes, leading to substantial savings.

2. Mandatory Five-Year Verification: Homeowners are now required to verify their homestead exemption status at least once every five years. County appraisal districts will send verification notices, and failure to respond may result in the loss of the exemption and an increase in property taxes.

How to File or Verify Your Homestead Exemption

For homeowners in Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, and Waller counties, here are the steps to file or verify your homestead exemption:

1. Obtain the Application Form:

   • Harris County: Visit the Harris County Appraisal District's website to access the homestead exemption application form.
   • Fort Bend County: The Fort Bend Central Appraisal District provides the necessary forms on their website.
   • Montgomery County: Access the Montgomery Central Appraisal District's website for application forms.
   • Waller County: The Waller County Appraisal District offers forms on their website.

2. Complete the Application:

   • Fill out the application form with accurate and up-to-date information.
   • Ensure that the property address on your application matches the address on your Texas driver's license or state-issued personal identification certificate, as this is a common requirement.

3. Gather Required Documentation:

   • A copy of your current Texas driver's license or state-issued ID.
   • Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or voter registration card, if required.

4. Submit the Application:

   • Applications can typically be submitted by mail, online, or in person.
   • Harris County: Submit through the Harris County Appraisal District's online services.
   • Fort Bend County: Utilize the eServices portal on the Fort Bend Central Appraisal District's website.
   • Montgomery County: Follow the submission guidelines provided on the Montgomery Central Appraisal District's website.
   • Waller County: Refer to the Waller County Appraisal District's website for submission instructions.

5. Verification Process:

   • If you receive a verification notice from your appraisal district, respond promptly with the requested information to maintain your exemption status.

Important Deadlines

• Application Deadline: Generally, the completed application and required documentation are due no later than April 30 of the year for which the exemption is requested.

• Late Application: A late application for a residence homestead exemption may be filed up to two years after the deadline has passed.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information or assistance:

• Texas Comptroller's Office: Provides comprehensive details on property tax exemptions.

• Local Appraisal Districts:

  • Harris County Appraisal District: hcad.org
  • Fort Bend Central Appraisal District: fbcad.org
  • Montgomery Central Appraisal District: mcad-tx.org
  • Waller County Appraisal District: waller-cad.org

Staying informed about these changes and adhering to the application and verification processes will help ensure that you continue to benefit from Texas's homestead exemptions.