Back in 2023, Texas enacted a law mandating that county appraisal districts verify homeowners’ eligibility for homestead exemptions at least once every five years. This measure aims to ensure that only qualified homeowners benefit from the associated tax reductions.
The homestead exemption allows Texas homeowners to have their property taxes calculated based on a value lower than the appraised or market value, providing significant tax savings. Previously, once granted, this exemption remained largely unchallenged. However, with the new legislation, appraisal districts are required to periodically confirm that homeowners still qualify for the exemption.
Verification Process in Central Texas
In Travis County, Chief Appraiser Leana Mann explained the process: “State law now requires us to check that a property owner remains eligible to claim a homestead exemption every five years. Verifying your eligibility is easy and can be completed online in just a few minutes.”
Failure to respond to verification notices can result in the loss of the exemption, leading to property taxes being calculated at the full appraised or market value. Homeowners are advised to monitor their mail for any correspondence from their county’s appraisal district regarding the homestead exemption. Ignoring such notices can lead to increased property taxes. To check the status of their exemption, homeowners can visit their county appraisal district’s website. A comprehensive list of these websites is available on the Texas Comptroller’s website.
If a homeowner discovers that their exemption has been removed, the reinstatement process involves completing a straightforward form. Once the form is submitted and processed, any overpaid taxes due to the lost exemption can be refunded.
Filing Deadlines in Travis and Williamson Counties
In Travis County, the deadline to file for a homestead exemption is April 30. Similarly, in Williamson County, homeowners are encouraged to file their exemption applications by April 30 to ensure timely processing. Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at the respective appraisal district offices.
Potential Increase in the Homestead Exemption
The Texas Senate recently passed SB 4, which proposes increasing the homestead exemption to $140,000 and $150,000 for seniors. This measure builds on the state’s recent property tax relief efforts. If signed into law and approved by voters in November 2025, this new exemption amount will be permanently codified in the Texas Constitution, providing even more tax savings for Texas homeowners.
Key Takeaways
- Verification Requirement: Homeowners must verify their homestead exemption every five years to maintain their tax benefit.
- Filing Deadlines: In Travis and Williamson counties, the deadline to file for a homestead exemption is April 30.
- Potential Increase: A proposed increase to $140,000 ($150,000 for seniors) in the homestead exemption could take effect if voters approve it in November 2025.
Homeowners should stay informed about these changes and ensure they respond to appraisal district requests to maintain their exemption and maximize their tax savings. At Hughes & Company Real Estate, we are here to help you through your entire homeownership experience. If you have questions about homestead exemptions, contact us today!
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