Homestead and Other Exemptions
An easy way to reduce your property tax is to file a Homestead Exemption on your primary dwelling. It is an easy form. In many counties you can do it online.
DO NOT PAY SOMEONE TO FILE IT FOR YOU
The form is way too easy to do yourself.
Before you file, you will need to make sure the address on your driver's license is updated to match your primary dwelling. The county will check with DPS. Here is the link to change it.
When to file? Early in the year that you lived in the property on Jan. 1st. The cutoff is in early spring, but there is no need to wait.
If you moved in on Jan 2nd, yes you have to wait until next year.
Why bother?
Save money on property taxes.
Limit the annual increase in appraised value. (Current limit is 10% with Homestead - no limit without.)
Other Exemptions include Over 65, Disability, and Military Disability. These are with filing as well. They can save you a lot! For example, most counties in Texas voluntarily cap your property taxes when you reach 65 - meaning they dollar amount freezes and will not increase. The key word is voluntarily. They don't promise this will last forever, but it has a very long tradition that does not seem likely to change.
Questions? Just ask us. We're here to help!
DO NOT PAY SOMEONE TO FILE IT FOR YOU
The form is way too easy to do yourself.
Before you file, you will need to make sure the address on your driver's license is updated to match your primary dwelling. The county will check with DPS. Here is the link to change it.
When to file? Early in the year that you lived in the property on Jan. 1st. The cutoff is in early spring, but there is no need to wait.
If you moved in on Jan 2nd, yes you have to wait until next year.
Why bother?
Save money on property taxes.
Limit the annual increase in appraised value. (Current limit is 10% with Homestead - no limit without.)
Other Exemptions include Over 65, Disability, and Military Disability. These are with filing as well. They can save you a lot! For example, most counties in Texas voluntarily cap your property taxes when you reach 65 - meaning they dollar amount freezes and will not increase. The key word is voluntarily. They don't promise this will last forever, but it has a very long tradition that does not seem likely to change.
Questions? Just ask us. We're here to help!
