Texas Homestead Exemption 2026: How It Works and How to Apply
If you own and live in a home in Texas, the homestead exemption is the single biggest break you can get on your property tax bill. It lowers the taxable value of your home, and since 2025 the amount it takes off for school taxes has grown a lot. Many homeowners still have not filed for it, and many families who inherit a house do not know they can claim it too. This guide covers what the Texas homestead exemption is, how much it saves, who qualifies, how to apply, and what happens to the exemption when a homeowner passes away. What Is the Texas Homestead Exemption? A homestead exemption removes part of your home's value from property taxation. Texas taxes are based on the appraised value your county appraisal district sets each year. The exemption is subtracted from that value before your tax rate is applied, so you pay tax on a smaller number. It only applies to your residence homestead , which is the home you own and actually live in as your principal residence. Rental ...