Know Your Property Tax Exemptions in Harris County
Know Your Property Tax Exemptions in Harris County
Property owners in Harris County may be able to take advantage of certain tax exemptions. For those who qualify, these exemptions can reduce a property owner’s tax bill and potentially save them thousands of dollars.
These exemptions are not automatic. Anyone who qualifies for these exemptions must apply to the Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD).
In Harris County, property owners can qualify for the following property tax exemptions:
- Homestead Exemptions
- Active Duty Military Deferred
- Over 65 or Disabled Deferred
- Quarter Payment Plan
- Disaster Installment Payment Plan
Each exemption has separate qualifying criteria.
Homestead Exemptions
When a property is an owner’s primary residence, they may qualify for a homestead exemption. This exemption must be applied for annually.
Active Duty Military Deferred
This option allows active duty military personnel to defer their property taxes without accruing any penalties or interest. This exemption does have a few restrictions.
The military personnel must currently be serving during a war or assisting in a natural emergency outside of Texas. They must already own the property when they left Texas to serve, or they inherited the property.
Over 65 or Disabled Deferred
Individuals who are over age 65 or who are disabled may be able to stay in their homes even if they own taxes or are unable to pay their taxes. Those who qualify can stop a judgment or tax sale or defer property taxes as long as they own and live in the property.
One important caveat is that, even if granted, this exemption does not restrict fees or penalties. For tax deferrals, interest is added at a rate of 5 percent annually. These payments will become due within 180 days once a property is sold or no longer an individual’s residence.
Quarter Payment Plan
Individuals who qualify for the over 65 or disabled exemption or are the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran may qualify for a penalty- and interest-free payment plan. These payments are split into four and must be paid within a year.
Disaster Installment Payment Plan
Property owners can apply for this exemption when their property sustains damage as a direct result of a declared natural disaster. Owners who qualify can split their tax payments into four equal, interest-free installments. These installments must be paid in full by July 31.
Properties qualify for the disaster installment payment plan when the property is:
- The owner’s residence
- A residential property with fewer than five living units
- Some properties owned or leased by businesses
Hire a Skilled Property Legal Team That Knows Harris County
If you have a property in Harris County and believe you qualify for an 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.
