Published January 7, 2026
If you own and live in your home in Travis County, there’s one simple step you shouldn’t overlook: filing your homestead exemption. Claiming this exemption can significantly reduce your taxable home value and lead to major savings on your property tax bill.
A homestead exemption removes part of your home’s value from taxation, which in turn reduces the amount of property taxes you owe. It’s a benefit every eligible homeowner should take advantage of.
Here are some common exemptions available in Travis County:
- General Residential Homestead Exemption — for most primary homeowners.
- Age 65 or Older Exemption — includes a tax “freeze” on school taxes.
- Disabled Person Exemption — with potential tax ceiling benefits.
- Disabled Veteran Exemptions — partial to full exemptions based on disability rating.
- Surviving Spouse and First Responder Exemptions — with eligibility requirements based on specific circumstances.
- Destroyed by Fire Exemption — new in 2026, for homes uninhabitable due to fire.
To apply for a general homestead exemption, you must:
- Own the home within the tax year you're applying for.
- Use the property as your primary residence.
- Provide a Texas driver’s license or state ID showing the same address as the property.
If you recently purchased your home, you can apply anytime throughout the year as long as you meet the ownership and residency requirements. The homestead will be applied to the year in which you applied. Note that applications may take up to 90 days to process.
There are three ways to submit your homestead exemption application in Travis County:
📍 Online – via the appraisal district’s online portal.
📬 Mail – send your completed form and required ID.
🏢 In Person – drop it off at the TCAD office: 850 East Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752
Once submitted, TCAD will review your application and notify you of approval — typically within about 90 days.
Good news — no, you don’t have to reapply annually. However, you will need to reapply IF:
- You move to a new home.
- Your eligibility changes through circumstantial adjustments in the list above.
- Chief Appraiser at Texas Central Appraisal District (TCAD) requests that you verify your exemption documentation in writing to confirm your benefits — which appraisal districts are now doing periodically by law.
If TCAD asks you to verify, make sure you respond by the date on your notice — or your exemption could be removed.
If you’re unsure where to begin or which exemptions apply to you, feel free to reach out to the trusted agents at Moreland Properties. We’re here to help guide you through the homeownership journey — and make sure you’re getting the most out of it.
Contact us anytime or talk with your agent for personalized support.
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Information pulled from Travis Central Appraisal District
