Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Property Tax Bill

Texas law requires school districts to offer a homestead exemption — at least $140,000 off your home's taxable value for schools. Other local taxing units may add their own exemptions on top of that.

You apply once with the Central Appraisal District of Johnson County (johnsoncad.com). The general deadline is before May 1 of the tax year, but you can file late and still get the exemption back-dated. Seniors and disabled homeowners may qualify for extra savings. Download Form 50-114 from the Texas Comptroller's site or pick it up at the appraisal district office at 109 N. Main St., Cleburne.