What Homeowners Need to Know

If you purchased a home in 2025 — or already own your primary residence in Texas — there are important updates to the Texas Homestead Exemption for 2026 that could impact your property taxes.

Recent changes approved by Texas voters have increased exemption amounts, which may reduce your taxable home value and overall tax burden. Here’s what you need to know.

 

What Is the Texas Homestead Exemption?

The Texas Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence. That means you pay property taxes on a lower assessed value — potentially saving thousands over time.

What About VA Loan Buyers and Veterans?

If you purchased your home using a VA loan, there may be additional property tax exemptions available.

Texas offers property tax benefits for qualifying disabled veterans and, in certain cases, surviving spouses. The amount of exemption depends on the veteran’s disability rating.

Important notes:

A VA loan does not automatically grant a tax exemption.

Applications must be submitted to your county appraisal district.

Eligibility depends on documentation from the VA.

If you believe you may qualify, it’s worth checking with your local county appraisal district or reaching out for guidance on where to start.

Once approved, the exemption remains in place unless ownership changes or your primary residence status changes.

---

Why This Matters

Property taxes are one of the largest long-term costs of homeownership in Texas. Filing your homestead exemption is one of the simplest ways to reduce that expense.

If you purchased a home in 2025 and haven’t filed yet, now is the time.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, have questions about veteran exemptions, or need help locating the correct county resources, I’m always happy to point you in the right direction.

Homeownership doesn’t end at closing — and neither does my support.

 

Protect your equity.
Reduce unnecessary property taxes.
Verify your Homestead Exemption before the April 30 deadline.