Q: What is a Homestead Exemption?

A: The Homestead Exemption is provided by state law for owner-occupied residential properties. The exemption removes a portion of your value from taxation providing a lower tax amount for the homestead property.

Q: How do I qualify for the Homestead Exemption?
A: Effective January 1, 2022, property owners may qualify for a general residence homestead exemption, for the applicable portion of that tax year, immediately upon owning and occupying the property as their principal residence, if the preceding owner did not receive the exemption that tax year.

Q: When and where do I apply for my Homestead Exemption?
A: You may apply at the Williamson Central Appraisal District or online by locating your property through Property Search and selecting the HS Exemption icon.  The Homestead Exemption can be applied for at any time of the year. 

Q: Do I need to reapply every year for my Homestead Exemption?
A: You do not have to reapply unless:

Q: Can I claim a Homestead Exemption on a mobile home if I do not own the land?
A: Yes. You will need to provide a copy of the statement of ownership of the mobile home or a verified copy of your purchase contract.

Q: How many acres can I claim as my homestead?
A: State law allows you to claim that portion of your land that you maintain for residential purposes, but this amount may not exceed 20 acres. Generally, one acre or less is maintained for homestead purposes.

Q: Am I eligible for additional exemptions when I turn 65?
A: If you are age 65 or older your residence homestead will qualify for additional exemption deductions. You qualify for the Age 65 or Older Exemption the year you turn 65. You can apply for the Age 65 or Older Exemption via the Homestead Exemption application by locating your property through Property Search and selecting the HS Exemption icon.

Q: I am a disabled veteran. Am I entitled to any property tax deductions?

A: You may qualify for the disabled veteran exemption if you are Texas resident and:

·         A veteran who was disabled while serving with the U.S. armed forces.

·         The surviving spouse or child (under 18 years of age or unmarried) of a disabled veteran.

 Q: What is the Disabled Veteran or Survivor’s Exemption?

A: Reduces taxable value for ALL taxing entities, deductions vary upon percentage of disabilities. (Can be backdated up to five years)

DV1: 10%-29% = $5,000

DV2: 30%-49% = $7,500

DV3: 50%-69% = $10,000.

DV4: 70%-100% = $12,000

You can apply for the Disabled Veteran or Survivors Exemption Form 50-135 our website by clicking on Forms and Applications > Most Requested Forms > Online Disabled Veteran Application.

*If your disability rating is 100% or you are being compensated at 100% due to unemployability you may qualify for a 100% Disabled Veteran’s Homestead Exemption. This is a TOTAL TAX EXEMPTION.  This property must be your principal residence, and you may not claim homestead on another property. You can apply for the 100% Disabled Veteran’s Homestead Exemption via the Homestead application by locating your property through Property Search and selecting the HS Exemption icon. 

Q: What documentation is needed to file for the Disabled Veteran or Survivor’s Exemption Form 50-135?

A: A copy of your recent Award Verification Letter from the VA. The letter must have the disability rating and the effective date. For Surviving Spouse, you will need the letter from the VA stating you are receiving surviving spouse benefits with the effective date.  You will also need to provide a copy of property owner’s driver’s license or state-issued personal identification card.

Q: I just found out I may qualify for an exemption; can I file for previous years?

A: Property owners can submit late applications.

·              Homestead- No later than 2 years after the first year you qualify

·               Over 65- No later than 2 years after the first year you qualify

·               Standard Disabled Veteran- No later than 5 years after the first year you qualify

·              100% Disabled Veteran- No later than 2 years after the first year you qualify

·              Disabled Person- No later than 2 years after the first year you qualify

Q: I am a homeowner with disabilities. May I receive any property tax benefits?
A: A person with a disability may get exemptions if:

·         You can’t engage in gainful work because of physical or mental disability or

·         You are 55 years old and blind and can’t engage in your previous work because of your blindness

If you receive disability benefits under the Federal Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program through the Social Security Administration you should qualify. Disability benefits from any other program do not automatically qualify.