Texas Homestead Exemption: Save on Katy Property Taxes

Texas has no state income tax — but our property taxes are real. And if you own the home you live in, the State of Texas gives you a meaningful break called the residence homestead exemption. The catch: it is not automatic. You have to apply for it — and many homeowners I meet have never filed.

Here is the news that makes this worth your attention right now: Texas voters raised the exemption in November 2025. The school district exemption is now $140,000 — up from $100,000 — and schools are usually the largest part of a Texas property tax bill. If you are 65 or older or have a qualifying disability, you get another $60,000 on top of that, for a total of $200,000 off school taxes, plus a freeze on your school tax bill. There is also a second, long-term benefit: once the exemption is in place, your home's appraised value for tax purposes generally cannot rise more than 10% a year, even if market values climb faster.

Who qualifies? You own the home, it is your primary residence as of January 1, and you have not claimed a homestead exemption on another property.

Filing is simple — and free. File Texas Comptroller Form 50-114 with your county appraisal district between January 1 and April 30. In the Katy area that is usually the Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD), the Fort Bend Central Appraisal District (FBCAD), or the Waller County Appraisal District — it depends on the county your home sits in, not your ZIP code. You will need the form, a copy of your driver's license or state ID showing the home's address, and proof of ownership. Be wary of any company that offers to file it for a fee; you never need to pay for this. Missed the deadline? Late applications are accepted for a limited time, so file anyway.

In most cases you only apply once — the exemption stays with you as long as the home remains your primary residence. A few minutes of paperwork can save you real money every single year you live in your home. If you bought a home with me — or with anyone — and you are not sure whether your exemption is in place, consider this your friendly reminder to check.

Questions? I am always happy to help. Call or text me at (832) 274-1329, or visit sarahnezhad.com to book a free consultation.

This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice. Rules and amounts can change; confirm current details with your county appraisal district or the Texas Comptroller.