Don’t Forget to File Your Homestead Exemption in Texas

If you recently bought a home in Texas, one of the most important next steps is filing your Homestead Exemption.

A homestead exemption can help reduce your property taxes and protect your home from certain creditors, so it’s something every eligible homeowner should complete as soon as possible.

When Can You File a Homestead Exemption?

If you recently closed on your home, you may now be eligible to file your homestead exemption with your county appraisal district.

Before you file, make sure your Texas driver’s license or state-issued ID shows your new property address. In most cases, the appraisal district requires your identification to match the home address for the exemption to be approved.

Do You Have to Report What You Paid for the Home?

Texas is a non-disclosure state, which means the purchase price of your home is not public record.

When filling out your homestead exemption application, you may notice a question asking what you paid for the property.

In most cases, you do not have to fill in that blank.

The main exception is if you purchased the home for less than the appraised value. In that situation, it may help to provide the sales price.

Homestead Exemption Scam Warning

Homeowners across Texas often receive mailers that look official and ask for payment to file a homestead exemption.

Do not pay them.

Filing your homestead exemption is free through your local county appraisal district. You do not need to hire a third party or pay a service fee.

If you receive a letter asking you to pay someone to file your homestead exemption, it is usually unnecessary and should be ignored.

How to File a Homestead Exemption in Texas

To file your homestead exemption, you will typically need:

  • Your completed homestead exemption application
  • A Texas driver’s license or state ID with your new address
  • Information about the property

Applications are filed directly with your county appraisal district.

Need Help Filing Your Homestead Exemption?

If you’re not sure how to file your homestead exemption or need the website for your county appraisal district, we’re happy to help.

At 903 Realty, we’re here to help homeowners in East Texas, including Longview, Tyler, and surrounding areas, understand the steps that come after closing.

 

Contact us anytime with questions about your new home.