Buying in Austin and want to lower your property tax bill the smart way? If you plan to live in your new home as your primary residence, the Texas homestead exemption can reduce the taxable value used to calculate your bill. You might be juggling move‑in tasks and timelines, so it helps to know exactly what qualifies, what to file, and when. This guide explains the rules for Austin homeowners in Travis County, what to gather, and how to submit your application on time. Let’s dive in.
Homestead basics in Texas
A homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence. It is an appraisal exemption, not a change to your tax rate. That means your tax rate stays the same, but the value it is applied to goes down.
Only one property can be your homestead at a time. Applying is free. You do not need to pay a third party to file it for you.
Who qualifies?
You qualify when you both own and occupy the property as your principal residence on January 1 of the tax year. If you meet that test, you can apply for the exemption for that year.
Additional exemptions may be available if you are age 65 or older, have a disability, or are a disabled veteran or a surviving spouse. Each category has its own requirements and documentation.
Key dates to remember
- January 1: You must own and occupy the home as your principal residence on this date to qualify for that tax year.
- April 30: File your application by this date so the exemption applies to that same tax year.
- If you miss April 30: File as soon as you can. In most cases, it will apply for the next tax year.
What your exemption changes
Your exemption lowers the appraised value used to calculate your taxes. It does not change the tax rates set by the county, city, or school district. The result is often a lower overall property tax bill because you are taxed on a smaller value.
Before you file
Change your driver's license to your new address! This will make the rest of the exemption process smooth.
Collect a few simple documents to make filing smooth:
- Proof of ownership: Recorded deed or closing disclosure.
- Proof of residence: Texas driver’s license or Texas ID showing the property address.
- Optional supports: Voter registration or vehicle registration at the property address.
- If applying for special exemptions: Proof of age, disability documentation, or VA disability rating letter.
Provide copies rather than originals unless the appraisal district asks otherwise. Keep your filing confirmation for your records.
Where to file in Travis County
For Austin properties in Travis County, submit your application to the Travis Central Appraisal District, often called TCAD. Do not send homestead applications to the county tax office. The tax office bills and collects taxes, while the appraisal district grants exemptions.
You can usually file online, by mail, or in person. Check current TCAD instructions for the latest submission options and office hours before you go.
How to complete the application
- Use the Residential Homestead Exemption application provided by TCAD.
- Include your legal description or property account number.
- Make sure your Texas driver’s license or ID shows the same Austin address.
- If you qualify for age 65 or disabled, or for disabled veteran exemptions, complete the additional forms and attach the required documentation.
Common timing scenarios
- Closed before January 1 and live in the home on January 1: Apply by April 30 to receive the exemption for that tax year.
- Closed after January 1: You generally will not qualify for that year. File so the exemption starts the next tax year.
- Multiple properties: Only one can be your homestead. If you claim more than one, exemptions may be removed and back taxes, interest, or penalties may apply.
Step-by-step checklist
- Before closing or move-in
- Confirm whether you will own and occupy the home by January 1.
- Keep your recorded deed and closing disclosure.
- First week in your new home
- Update your Texas driver’s license or ID to your new address.
- Update voter and vehicle registration to the new address if needed.
- File your exemption
- Download or access TCAD’s Residential Homestead Exemption application.
- Attach your deed or closing disclosure and Texas DL/ID showing the property address.
- Submit to TCAD by April 30 for same-year effect.
- After filing
- Save your filing confirmation.
- Watch for your spring appraisal notice. If the value seems off, note the protest deadline, which commonly falls in May or 30 days from your notice.
- If you qualify, apply for age 65+, disabled, or disabled veteran exemptions.
After you file
Once granted, your general homestead exemption usually remains in place as long as the home is your primary residence and you remain the owner. If you move, sell, or convert the home to another use, notify the appraisal district. TCAD may occasionally request verification, especially if records show multiple properties or different mailing addresses.
Avoid common pitfalls
- Missing the January 1 test: If you did not both own and occupy on January 1, your exemption generally starts the next tax year.
- Filing with the tax office: Send homestead applications to TCAD, not the tax office.
- Address mismatch: Make sure your Texas DL/ID shows your property address before you file.
- Paying a third party: The application is free. Only hire help if you want representation for a complex situation.
If you would like a local walkthrough of the process and help planning timelines around an Austin purchase, reach out. A quick consultation can save time and help you file correctly the first time.
FAQs
Who can claim a homestead exemption?
- Homeowners who both own and occupy the property as their principal residence
Does the homestead exemption change my tax rate?
- No. It lowers the appraised value used to calculate your taxes. The tax rate set by each taxing unit stays the same.
Where do I file in Travis County?
- File with the Travis Central Appraisal District. The appraisal district grants exemptions, while the county tax office handles billing and payments.
What is the deadline to file for the current year?
- File by April 30 for the exemption to apply that year. If you file after April 30, it typically applies the following year.
What documents do I need to apply?
- Proof of ownership and a Texas driver’s license or ID that shows the property address. Include any required documents if applying for age 65+, disabled, or disabled veteran exemptions.
Do I need to reapply every year?
- Usually no. Once approved, it stays in place unless your ownership or occupancy changes. TCAD may request occasional verification.
Can renters claim a homestead exemption?
- No. The exemption is for owners who use the property as their principal residence.
What if I sell my home?
- The exemption ends when you no longer own or occupy the home. A new owner must file their own application if eligible.
Ready to buy in Austin and want help timing your homestead filing, appraisal review, and move-in plan? Schedule a Consultation with Liz King for clear, local guidance.
