How to File for Homestead Exemption in Austin

Save $1,500-3,000+ per year on property taxes. Here's exactly how to do it.

April 2026 • Austin Cribs

What Is Homestead Exemption?

Texas law lets you exempt a portion of your home's value from property taxes if it's your primary residence. In Travis County (Austin), this saves the average homeowner $1,500-3,000 per year.

Who Qualifies?

You own the home (not a rental/investment property)
It's your primary residence as of January 1
You have a Texas driver's license or ID with the property address
You haven't claimed homestead exemption on another property

How to File (5 Minutes)

Go to the Travis County Appraisal District website: traviscad.org
Click "Forms" then "Homestead Exemption Application"
Fill out the form with your name, address, and property info
Attach a copy of your Texas driver's license (address must match)
Submit online or mail to: Travis Central Appraisal District, PO Box 149012, Austin TX 78714

Deadline

April 30 of the tax year. File as soon as you buy your home it's retroactive to January 1. You can also file late for up to 2 years back.

How Much You Save

School District

$100,000 off assessed value. On a $550K home, saves ~$1,300/year.

County/City

20% off assessed value. Additional $500-1,000/year savings.

Over 65 / Disabled

Additional $10,000 exemption + tax freeze. Major savings.

The 10% Cap

Once you have homestead exemption, your assessed value can only increase 10% per year maximum, no matter how much the market goes up. This is the real power it protects you from runaway tax increases.

Don't leave money on the table. Every Austin homeowner should file this. It takes 5 minutes and saves you thousands every year.

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