A hot topic of conversation in central Texas is our property tax rates (boy-howdy is it ever!!), especially so while we are in the thick of tax season. Depending on where you are located in the state, you’ll find tax rates that can be startlingly high and seem to be creeping ever higher. (Just a side note: that’s one of the trade-offs of living in a state with no income tax — the money to fund things like our utilities, roads, hospitals, and schools has to come from somewhere so, sadly, it kinda leaves homeowners holding the bag.)
Rather than debate the merits of our system of taxation, I just want to pass on a little reminder to homeowners — especially first time buyers — to be sure and file for your HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION in order to lessen your tax bill.
So for those of you unfamiliar, here’s a little FAQ to start with from the Travis County Appraisal District:
What is a general homestead exemption?
The general homestead exemption is provided by State law for owner-occupied residential properties. The exemption removes a portion of your value from taxation providing a lower tax amount for the homestead property.
How do I qualify for the general homestead exemption?
In order to qualify for this exemption you must have owned and occupied the property as of January 1st of that tax year. This property must also be your principal residence. You may not claim another homestead on another piece of property. You must submit a copy of your driver’s license with your application and the address on the license MUST match the address of the property for which you are requesting the homestead exemption.
If there is more than one owner of the property do all owners have to sign the application?
Yes, unless the owners are married. If the owners are married then only one has to sign, but we encourage both signatures. All owners must include a copy of their Texas Driver License or State-issued ID Card with matching address.
If my driver’s license does not match the property address, will you accept a passport/temporary/CHL?
No, per the Texas Property Tax Code the district cannot accept a passport or Concealed Handgun License (CHL). Only a Texas ID or Texas DL with the address of the property is required along with the homestead application.
When do I apply for my homestead exemption?
You may apply at the Travis Central Appraisal District between January 1st and April 30th of the tax year. You may file for late HS exemption up to one year after the date which the taxes become delinquent.
I forgot to apply for my exemption, can I receive it retroactively?
You may file a late homestead exemption application if you file it no later than one year after the date the taxes become delinquent.
Is there a fee to file for an exemption?
There is no fee to file and you do not have to hire anyone to file for you.
What year do I apply for the homestead exemption if I purchased my property last year?
To qualify for a homestead exemption you must own and occupy the property on or before January 1st of the year for which you are applying for. You may submit the form now and the homestead will be applied to year in which you qualify.
Do I need to reapply every year for my homestead exemption?
No, you do not have to reapply unless the chief appraiser requests a new application in writing or you move to a new residence.
Do I have to file another form for the new home I just bought?
Yes, a new application is required when a property owner’s residence homestead is changed.
How many acres can I claim as my homestead?
State law allows you to claim the portion of your land that you maintain for residential purposes but this amount may not exceed 20 acres. Generally, one acre or less is maintained for homestead purposes.
Where to file your exemption, or to get answers to more questions:
Travis County
Website: https://www.traviscad.org
Phone: 512.834.9317
Email: csinfo@tcadcentral.org
Homestead exemption forms are available on our website at on the Forms page under Exemptions or you can request that an application be mailed to you by contacting Customer Service at (512) 834-9138. The applications must be returned to the appraisal district and may be returned by the following methods:
Online: Please call and select option 4 for general questions to request a Personal Identification Number (PIN)
Hand deliver to: 8314 Cross Park Drive, Austin, TX 78754
Mail: PO Box 149012, Austin, TX 78714
Williamson County
Website: https://www.wcad.org
Phone: 512.930.3787
Email forms to: exemptions@wcad.org
Mail/Hand deliver to : 625 FM 1460 Georgetown, Texas 78626
Okay, I hope all that has been helpful. Make sure your ID matches your homestead address and get those exemptions filed if you haven’t already!
Adventures in Austin Real Estate 