Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Property Tax Bill

Texas law gives a $140,000 exemption on a homestead for school taxes. School taxes are usually the biggest part of your bill. This exemption cuts the taxable value of your home. If you are 65 or older or have a disability, you may qualify for extra exemptions.

Texas also caps how fast your taxable value can grow. Once you have a homestead exemption, your taxable value cannot rise more than 10% in a year. This is true even if the market value jumps higher.

You apply for the exemption at the Gillespie Central Appraisal District. The appraisal district is the office that sets your property value — it is not the same as the tax office. The general deadline to file is May 1 of the tax year. Check the appraisal district website for current deadlines and forms.