Homestead and Ag Valuation Applications Go to the Appraisal District

If this is your main home, you can apply for a general residence homestead exemption. Texas law requires school districts to give homeowners a $140,000 exemption off the school portion of their tax bill. You must submit a copy of your driver's license with the application. File with the Shackelford County Appraisal District at 132 Hill St., Albany.

Ranchers and farmers can apply for agricultural (1-d-1) appraisal. This lets qualifying land be valued on what it produces rather than its market price, which is usually much lower. Land generally must have been used for ag purposes for five of the past seven years. The appraisal district's forms page has the application (Form 50-129). Tax rates change and exemption amounts can be updated by the legislature, so verify current figures directly with the appraisal district or the Texas Comptroller.