File a homestead exemption to lower your property tax bill

If you own a home in Ellis County and it is your main residence, you can apply for a homestead exemption. State law requires school districts to give you at least a $140,000 reduction in your home's taxable value. Other local taxing units may offer additional reductions.

You apply using Texas Comptroller Form 50-114. The general deadline is before May 1 of the tax year, but check with the Ellis County Appraisal District for the current cutoff. You only need to file once; the exemption stays until your status changes. The application is free.