Is the Homestead Exemption Retroactive in Texas?

Some Texas homeowners may be eligible for tax breaks on their property taxes; these tax breaks apply to properties that are the owners’ primary residences. Homeowners who are over age 65 or disabled may qualify for additional exemptions, such as the Homestead Exemption.

What is a Homestead Exemption?

Texas recognizes the following types of homestead exemptions:

• All eligible homeowners may qualify for a $40,000 residence homestead exemption.
• Depending on their county of residence, a homeowner may qualify for up to a $3,000 exemption for farm-to-market roads or flood control county taxes.
• Any city, county, school, or special district may allow exemptions of up to 20 percent of a home’s property. These exemptions must be at least $5,000. This can be added to any other qualifying exemptions.
• For those who are over age 65 or disabled, they may qualify for an additional $3,000 exemption. Some counties may have additional exemptions for those over age 65 or disabled. Those who are both over age 65 and disabled may only qualify for a single exemption.



Individuals who move away for less than two years, are in the military, or are in an assisted living or healthcare facility may still qualify for these exemptions.

Homestead Exemption Deadlines

Homeowners don’t automatically qualify for the homestead exemption. They must apply for each tax year they want to claim the exemption.

Homeowners must submit a completed application and any required documentation by April 30 of the tax year for which they’re applying. The delinquency date is usually Feb. 1 of the following year.

Can Homeowners Retroactively Apply for the Homestead Exemption?

If a homeowner can satisfy the requirements of the homestead exemption for previous tax years, they may file a late homestead exemption. The deadline to file a late homestead exemption is up to two years after the delinquency date. The delinquency date is generally Feb. 1, but homeowners should check before filing to make sure all paperwork is submitted on time.

If a late homestead exemption application is approved, a property owner will receive a refund on previously paid taxes.

Hire a Skilled Property Legal Team That Knows Texas

If you have missed filing deadlines for the homestead exemption or have other issues related to the exemption, a skilled Texas property law attorney can help. The attorneys at Manfred Law help Texas property owners resolve property issues. Call us at 713-547-5460 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.