If you became a homeowner in 2025, CONGRATULATIONS!!   Buying a home is such an exciting accomplishment, and as Property Tax bills are now being sent out, there’s one important step you do NOT want to overlook: filing for your Homestead Exemption!

This simple – and free – filing can save you several hundred dollars each year on your property taxes.

What Is a Homestead Exemption?

A Homestead Exemption is a property tax reduction benefit that is provided in most states, available to homeowners who occupy their property as their Primary Residence. It reduces the taxable value of your home, which in turn lowers your property tax bill.

For example, if someone’s home is valued at $400,000 and their state and local governments grant a $40,000 Homestead Exemption, they will only be taxed as if their home is worth $360,000.

Who Qualifies for the Homestead Exemption?

To qualify, you must:

• Own and occupy the home as your Primary Residence.
• Have an updated driver’s license or state ID showing the new home address.

It’s that simple!

When and How to File

The good news is you only need to file once and it’s completely free, typically through your county’s central appraisal district.  Once approved, your Exemption will automatically renew each year as long as you continue living in the home.  NOTE:  some states have begun re-verifying that the home is the owner’s Primary Residence every 5 years, and they will mail you a notice if they need help with that process.

To apply, do a simple internet search for your county’s Homestead Exemption application.  For example, someone who lives in Dallas County would search for “Dallas County Homestead Exemption”, and that usually provides a direct link at the top of your search results.  Some counties will require you to print the form and mail it to them along with a copy of your updated driver’s license, while some counties allow you to do it all online.  Hopefully, all counties will catch up on technology soon so that all of us can do the process online!

Most states allow you to file for your Homestead Exemption at any time of the year.  For my Texas readers, the property tax bills for 2025 are being mailed out here at the beginning of October.  If you have not filed for your Homestead Exemption yet, your bill may be a lot higher than it should.  You can still file for the Homestead Exemption and then ask the county tax assessor’s office to update your 2025 tax bill before you or your mortgage lender pay it.

Additional Exemptions You Might Qualify For

Most states also offer several other property tax exemptions, including:

• Over-65 Exemption
• Disabled Person Exemption
• Disabled Veteran Exemption

If you qualify for any of these, be sure to apply for them at the same time to maximize your annual savings!

Final Thoughts

With rising property values across the nation, every bit of savings helps. Filing your Homestead Exemption is one of the easiest ways to reduce your tax bill and can protect your home from certain creditors under state laws.

If you purchased your Primary Residence in 2025, start filing your Homestead Exemption now. It’s quick, free, and easy – and it can make a real difference in your annual housing costs.  Or anytime you buy a new Primary Residence in the future, plan to file for your Homestead Exemption as soon as possible after you move in.

If you have questions about how to apply, or if you’re thinking about Refinancing or Purchasing your new home, feel free to reach out.  I’m always happy to help guide homeowners through every step of homeownership. Call me today at (214) 542-4095 or email Rob@TeamRobHomeLoans.com to get started.