Texas Homestead Exemption

If you purchased your home last year, don’t forget to apply for your Homestead Exemption.  It will save you money by removing part of your home’s value from taxation.  To qualify, you must own your home as of January 1 and you must use your home as your primary residence as of January 1.

A state law that took effect on September 1, 2011 has changed proof of residency requirements for homeowners applying for the property tax homestead exemption.  A home buyer must update their address on their driver’s license, and with the tax assessor/collector in their area in order to be able to provide the required documentation for the homestead exemption.

Homestead Exemption 2012 Requirements

Your Homestead Exemption will NOT be allowed unless all the required documents show the same homestead address. ALL THREE DOCUMENTS MUST HAVE THE SAME ADDRESS.

• APPLICATION FOR RESIDENTIAL HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
• Copy of DRIVER’S LICENSE or IDENTIFICATION CARD from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the address MUST MATCH the homestead address.
• Copy of Vehicle Registration Receipt. The address MUST MATCH the homestead address. Once the change of address is processed by the tax collector’s office, homeowners can get a copy of their registration receipt either from the tax office or from the department of motor vehicles.
• If you do not own a vehicle, you must complete the Non-Ownership of Motor Vehicle Adavit (found on the Application for Residential Homestead Exemption), sign it before a Notary Public, and attach a copy of a utility bill showing the homestead address.

Homestead Exemption Form for Travis County

Homestead Exemption Form for Williamson County

Homestead Exemption Form for Harris County

You can also visit the Texas Comptroller’s website for more information and frequently asked questions regarding all homestead exemptions.