If you own a home your property tax bill is based on your home’s taxable value after exemptions and the tax rates set by the local government jurisdictions. Texas does not have a state property tax. Everything is assessed and administered locally.
That means the most effective ways to lower your property taxes are:
- Claim every exemption you qualify for
- Review your appraisal notice carefully
- Protest an unequal or excessive valuation before the deadline
At Property Tax Help, we assist Central Texas homeowners in navigating exemptions and protest deadlines so they can avoid overpaying in 2026.
Key 2026 Property Tax Law Updates for Homeowners
$140,000 Texas Homestead Exemption for school taxes
An additional $60,000 exemption for school taxes if over 65 or disabled
Local cities & counties may add exemptions
Exemptions That Can Reduce Your Property Tax Bill
Residence Homestead Exemption: If the property is your primary residence, confirm that your general homestead exemption is properly on file with your appraisal district. Some local taxing units may offer up to a 20% optional homestead exemption, which can further reduce taxable value.
Disabled Veteran Exemption: Disabled veterans may file for partial exemptions based on disability rating. Veterans with a 100% disability rating (or individual unemployability) may file for a total homestead residence exemption. Certain surviving spouses may also qualify.
Agricultural / Timber Valuation: If your home sits on acreage and part of the land is genuinely used for farming, ranching, timber production, or wildlife management, that portion may qualify for a productivity-value appraisal.
This special valuation is based on the land’s productive use rather than its market value, but strict qualification rules apply. Any productivity value appraisal requires a timely application and some required annual reporting.
Understanding the Homestead Cap
Texas law limits the annual increase in a homestead’s taxable value to 10% per year, but there are important exceptions.
The cap resets if:
Ownership changes (sale, transfer to trust, or transfer into an LLC); or
Significant improvements are made (new construction, major remodels, pools, garages, additions).
Important 2026 Property Tax Deadlines
Missing deadlines can limit your ability to reduce your bill.
Early April 2026 – Appraisal notices typically mailed
May 15, 2026 – Protest deadline or 30 days after your notice is mailed, whichever is later
April 30, 2026 – Deadline to apply for most exemptions
January 31, 2027 – 2026 property taxes must be paid by this date
Take Action Before the Deadline
Property taxes are one of the largest expenses for homeowners in Central Texas. Making sure your exemptions are applied correctly and your valuation is fair can result in meaningful savings.
Property Tax Help has years of experience in Central Texas that can be put to work for you to help you manage your property tax expenses.
Call (254) 640-0057 or email ops@proptaxhelp.com.
