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Friday, Jan. 17, 2025

Fact brief: Do Texas homeowners ever need to reapply for a homestead exemption?

Drew Shaw, Fort Worth Report
yes

Texas homeowners who qualify for a homestead exemption might need to reapply for the tax deduction as their county’s chief appraiser reviews their property’s eligibility.

Lawmakers passed a law in 2023 requiring appraisal districts to review and confirm each exemption in their county every five years. If a county doubts a homeowner’s exemption, it will mail the homeowner a notice to reapply.

Homeowners do not need to reapply unless they receive a notice.

A homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of a home thus lowering the owner’s property tax bill. 

In June 2024, Tarrant County increased its homestead exemption from 10% of a property’s value to the state maximum of 20%. Current homestead owners do not need to refile for exemptions in order to receive the additional savings.

Homeowners can check the status of their exemption on their appraisal district’s website or by calling the district.

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.

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