Property tax breaks, over 65 and disabled persons homestead exemptions

Requirements

• If you are 65 years of age or older
• If you turn 65 after Jan.1, you receive the exemption for the entire year
• If the address you are applying for exemption matches the address on your government issued photo identification
• If you meet the Social Security Administration’s definition for disabled and receive disability benefits under the federal Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance Program, you may qualify for the Disabled Person Homestead Exemption, which you can file online

Application

By mail

1. Visit the Travis Central Appraisal District forms database to download and print your application
2. Required documents to send with application
   • A copy of your state-issued personal identification
   • A signed copy of the Physician Statement Form available from the Travis Central Appraisal District website
   • A copy of your most recent federal income tax return including the corresponding W-2
3. Mail to 

   P.O. Box 149012
   Austin, TX 78714-9012

Online

The Travis Central Appraisal District grants homestead exemptions and assigns you the Owner ID and PIN you will need to apply on your Notice of Appraised Value. It is FREE to apply for the General Homestead Exemption online.

1. Call (512) 834-9138 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request for an Owner ID and PIN.
2. Visit the Travis Central Appraisal District website to complete the application online

School Tax Ceiling

The homestead tax ceiling is a limit on the amount of school taxes you pay. When you qualify for an Over 65 or Disabled Person homestead exemption, the school taxes on your house will not increase. The ceiling freezes your school taxes at the amount you pay in the year that you qualify for the exemption.

The school taxes on your house may go below the ceiling, but not above. If you improve the home (other than normal repairs or maintenance), the tax ceiling may be adjusted to account for the value of the new additions (i.e., a new garage, extra room or other fixed structure that adds value).

Transferring a Tax Ceiling

A tax ceiling is transferrable to a new house or residence. You will need the Travis Central Appraisal District to assist you with the transfer.