Texas Homestead Exemptions

Filing For Homestead Exemption

There aren’t any strict qualification criteria for the general ($40,000) homestead exemption other than you must have an ownership interest in the property and use it as your “principal residence.” Second homes and vacation homes are not eligible.

According to the Texas Comptroller's website:

“A homestead can be a separate structure, condominium or a manufactured home located on owned or leased land, as long as the individual living in the home owns it. A homestead can include up to 20 acres, if the land is owned by the homeowner and used for a purpose related to the residential use of the homestead.”

Note: State taxation officials determine the general rules and procedures for Texas homestead exemptions. It is up to the individual counties to decide how to implement them. There can be some variations in the requirements and exemption amounts between counties.

Click here for general information on homestead exemptions. Find your county here.

As long as you meet the above basic eligibility requirements, applying for a homestead exemption in Texas should be straightforward. It only takes a few minutes to file the paperwork.

Depending on the county, the process may differ slightly. In general, it works like this:

Visit the tax appraisal website for your county to find any specific instructions.
Obtain a copy of the “Application of Residential Homestead Exemption” (a.k.a., Property Tax Form 50-114) from your local appraisal district.
Complete the application with the required information about yourself and the property you’re claiming as a primary residence.
Submit the form in accordance with instructions provided by your appraisal district.
Provide any additional items your district might require (e.g., copy of driver’s license).
Follow up with your local appraisal district if you don’t receive any confirmation.