Maximum Savings: Your Guide to Texas Property Tax Exemptions in 2026
For many Texans, a home is the largest investment they will ever make. However, as property values continue to climb, so do property tax bills. The good news? 2026 is a landmark year for property tax relief. Thanks to historic constitutional amendments approved by voters, homeowners are now eligible for the largest exemptions in state history.
If you aren’t filing for every exemption you’re entitled to, you are essentially leaving money on the table. Here is everything you need to know about the new 2026 laws, the retroactive 2025 benefits, and how to protect your wallet.
The Big Update: New 2026 Constitutional Amendments
In late 2025, Texas voters approved a massive overhaul of property tax exemptions.1 These changes are in full effect for the 2026 tax year and, crucially, apply retroactively to the 2025 tax year.
- The General Homestead Exemption Increase: The “standard” homestead exemption for school district taxes has been raised from $100,000 to **$140,000**.
- The Over-65 and Disabled Exemption Boost: For seniors (65+) and homeowners with disabilities, the additional exemption was increased from $10,000 to **$60,000**. Combined with the general homestead, this means a total of $200,000 in value is exempt from school taxes.
Are You Already Protected? How to Check
Before you file new paperwork, you should verify what exemptions are currently active on your property. Most homeowners assume their title company or lender handled this, but it is ultimately the owner’s responsibility.
To check your status, visit your local appraisal district’s website and use their “Property Search” or “Account Search” tool. Search by your address or name, and look for a section labeled “Exemptions.”
- For Dallas Residents: Use the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD) Search Tool.
- Outside of Dallas: You can find your specific county’s portal via the Texas Comptroller’s List of Appraisal Districts.
Forgot to File? The 2-Year Retroactive Rule
A common myth is that if you miss the filing deadline, you’ve lost your tax break forever. In Texas, Tax Code Section 11.431 actually allows you to file for a Homestead Exemption retroactively for up to two years after the delinquency date (which is usually February 1st).
Note: As of January 1, 2022, new homeowners no longer have to wait until January 1st of the following year to qualify—you can file for your Homestead Exemption immediately after moving in!
Why Filing is Really Non-Negotiable
Filing is your primary defense against rising costs:
- The 10% Appraisal Cap: Once you have a homestead exemption, the appraised value of your home cannot increase by more than 10% per year.
- The Tax Ceiling (The “Freeze”): For those 65 or older or disabled, your school district taxes are frozen.
- Immediate Savings: Because the new law applies to 2025, filing now could result in a refund check or a significant credit toward your mortgage escrow account.
Exemptions You Should Apply For
| Exemption Type | Eligibility Requirement | 2026 Tax Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| General Homestead | Primary residence owned and occupied. | $140,000 off appraised value |
| Over-65 (Seniors) | Homeowner aged 65 or older. | Additional $60,000 ($200k total) |
| Disability | Meets SSA definition of disability. | Additional **$60,000** ($200k total) |
| 100% Disabled Veteran | 100% disability rating from VA. | 100% Exemption (Pay $0) |
| Surviving Spouse | Spouse of member killed in action. | 100% Exemption |
Summary Guide
For a more detailed list of all exemptions that can be applied for, download the Texas Property Tax Assistance Guide (PDF).
How to File (Step-by-Step)
In Texas, there is no fee to file for an exemption.
- Sync Your ID: Your Texas Driver’s License or ID card must show the address of the property you are claiming.
- Download the Form: Use Form 50-114: Application for Residence Homestead Exemption.
- Submit to your CAD: You must file with your specific County Appraisal District. For example, if you live in Dallas, you would file through the Dallas Central Appraisal District.
Don’t wait! Whether you just bought your home or have lived there for years, checking your status and filing today ensures you grab your share of the historic 2026 tax relief.
Pro Tip: Once you receive your homestead exemption, you do not need to reapply every year unless the appraisal district requests it or you move to a new home.
Don’t wait! Whether you just bought your home or have lived there for years, checking your status and filing today ensures you grab your share of the historic 2026 tax relief. If you are interested in seeing how these exemptions specifically affect your bottom line, you can use a property tax calculator to estimate your potential savings.
By Jennifer Cloud, Esq., Owner of Prominus
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