Homestead exemption can lower your tax bill

Texas law requires school districts to give homeowners at least a $140,000 exemption on a residence homestead. That means $140,000 of your home's value is not taxed by the school district. Other taxing units, like the county or a city, may offer additional local exemptions.

You file the application with the Navarro Central Appraisal District, not with the tax office. The general deadline is before May 1. Once approved, you usually do not need to reapply each year. Check the CAD's website for current forms and deadlines.