Texas homestead exemption
The Texas homestead exemption, in plain words.
If you live in the home you buy, the homestead exemption lowers its taxable value. File the year you move in so you do not leave money on the table.
Lower taxable value on your home
A homestead exemption removes part of your home's value from taxation. It applies only to your principal residence, and you apply with the appraisal district in the county where the home sits.
The biggest piece is the school district exemption. In November 2025 Texas voters approved Proposition 13, raising it from $100,000 to $140,000 of value.
Cities and counties can add their own. Frisco raised its city homestead exemption to 20% for fiscal year 2026, the maximum state law allows. Ask for the exemptions that apply to the address you are buying.
Three steps after closing
The home must be your principal residence.
Use the county appraisal district's online form (Collin, Denton, Dallas or Tarrant) with your Texas ID showing the property address.
Your appraisal notice should show the exemption. If it does not, call the district before the protest deadline.
- Texas Comptroller: property tax rates and levies
- Texas Comptroller: property tax exemptions
- FOX 4: Texans pass Proposition 13 raising the school homestead exemption (Nov 2025)
- Republic Title: 2025 DFW area tax rates
- City of McKinney: Tax Information (McKinney MUD No. 1)
- City of Celina: Public Improvement Districts
- City of Frisco: Property Tax Rate
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