Texas Homestead Exemption:
How to File & Save Thousands
If you own and live in your home, you're probably leaving money on the table. Filing is free, takes minutes, and could save you thousands every year.
What the Homestead Exemption Means for Your Bottom Line
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What You Need to Know
Four key things every Texas homeowner should understand.
What the Homestead Exemption Actually Does
The homestead exemption removes a portion of your home's value from taxation. In Travis County, the general residential exemption is substantial — and recent increases by the Commissioners Court have boosted exemptions for seniors (65+), disabled persons, and surviving spouses to $110,000. This directly reduces your property tax bill every year you own and occupy your home.
Who Qualifies (Spoiler: Most Homeowners)
If you own your home and it's your primary residence as of January 1, you qualify for the general homestead exemption. You'll need a Texas driver's license or ID showing your property address. There's no income requirement, no home value cap, and no catch — it's a straightforward benefit for Texas homeowners.
How to File in Travis County
File online at taxpayer.justappraised.com/traviscad, by mail to P.O. Box 149012, Austin TX 78714, or drop off at 850 East Anderson Lane. You'll need the application form (available at traviscad.org) and a copy of your Texas ID. The whole process takes about 10–15 minutes. You only need to file once — it stays on your property until you move.
Stack It With a Tax Protest for Maximum Savings
The homestead exemption and a property tax protest are separate tools that work together. The exemption reduces your taxable value automatically. A successful protest reduces your appraised value. Combined, they can save you hundreds to thousands per year.
File Once, Save Every Year
Here's everything you need to do.
- ✓Confirm you owned and occupied your home as of January 1
- ✓Get a Texas driver's license or ID showing your property address
- ✓File at traviscad.org — online is fastest
- ✓Check if you qualify for additional exemptions (senior, disabled, veteran)
- ✓Combine with a property tax protest before May 15 for maximum savings
Not sure if you've already filed?
Tell us your address and we'll confirm your exemption status and flag any savings you might be missing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Austin homeowners are asking about homestead exemptions right now.
How much will I save with the homestead exemption?
+Do I need to file every year?
+What if I missed the May 1 deadline?
+Can I have a homestead exemption and rent out part of my home?
+What other exemptions might I qualify for?
+Stop Overpaying on Texas Property Taxes
File your homestead exemption, protest your appraisal, and get a current market analysis — three steps that could save you thousands this year.