Homestead Exemption
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What property qualifies as a “homestead?”
A “homestead” is a house or other residential structure that you own, together with up to 20 acres where the structure sits if the land is used for residential purposes. A manufactured home on a rented lot qualifies as long as you own the home. Manufactured homes must meet additional requirements for a “Statement of Ownership and Location,” but if you did not receive the paperwork from the prior owner and cannot locate the seller after making a good faith effort, you can submit the affidavit in Form 114-A.
Who is eligible for this exemption?
General residence homestead exemption. You are eligible for a homestead exemption if you (1) own your home (partial ownership counts), (2) the home is your principal residence, and (3) you have a Texas driver’s license or Texas-issued personal identification certificate (your I.D. card address must match your principal residence address).
How do I apply for this exemption?
To apply for a homestead exemption, you need to submit an application with your county appraisal district. Filing an application is free and only needs to be filed once. The application can be found on your appraisal district website or using Texas Comptroller Form 50-114. If you turn 65 or become disabled, you need to submit another application to obtain the extra exemption, using the same Form 50-114.
How do I qualify for a homestead exemption on an inherited home?
If you have inherited your home, you can qualify for 100% of the homestead exemption if the home is your primary residence. If you do not have a deed in your name or other recorded instrument documenting your ownership, you can still qualify for an exemption by completing a simple affidavit in the homestead exemption application form, which is available in Form 50-114-A on the Texas Comptroller’s website. Several other documents are required to be submitted with the application as proof of ownership. See the instructions to Form 50-114 and information about “Heir Property.” Also, see Inherited Homes, Homestead Exemptions, and Property Taxes.
When do I apply for this exemption?
You can file the application for a homestead exemption at any time. If your application is postmarked by April 30th, the exemption can be processed in time for your property tax bill that comes out in the fall. If you file after April 30th, the exemption will be applied retroactively if you file up to one year after the tax delinquency date (typically February 1st of the following tax year). You can also apply anytime for the over-65 or disabled person exemption after you qualify for the exemption; the exemption will be applied retroactively if you file within a year of turning 65 or becoming disabled.
