Harris County, TX: homestead & property-tax exemptions

How to claim property-tax exemptions in Harris County (Houston area): who qualifies, the deadline, where to file, documents, re-filing and appeals.

Last checked 2026-10-21 · 6 official sources

File with

Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD)

Official exemption page →

Exemptions available

HCAD's Form 11.13 covers the general residence homestead, over-65, disability, 100% disabled veteran, and surviving spouse exemptions. ^[1]
State-mandated school exemptions apply ($140,000 general; additional $60,000 for 65+/disabled). See the Texas page. ^[2]

Statewide exemption details: Texas guide.

You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence and provide a valid Texas driver's license or ID card with a matching address. ^[1]

File beginning Jan. 1 and no later than April 30 of the year you're requesting the exemption. A late residence homestead application must be filed within two years after the delinquency date for the taxes on the homestead (Tax Code Section 11.431). ^[3]
Age 65 or older, disabled, or donated homesteads of partially disabled veterans: apply no later than the first anniversary of the date you qualify. ^[3]

Online through the HCAD Info and Exemptions mobile app (general homestead and over-65 only). You need your occupancy date and Texas driver's license, and the name and address on the license must match your HCAD account. ^[4]^[1]
Or mail Form 11.13 with a copy of your license, or drop it off at 13013 Northwest Freeway (third-floor customer service). ^[1]

A copy of your Texas driver's license or state ID showing the property address. A temporary paper license is accepted if you've just updated your address. ^[1]
A copy of your deed if the property isn't listed in your name. ^[1]

If granted, you don't need to reapply annually. You must reapply if the chief appraiser requires it, and you must notify the chief appraiser in writing before May 1 of the year after your right to the exemption ends. ^[3]

Texas protest rule: May 15 or 30 days after the notice of appraised value is mailed, whichever is later. ^[5]

Local-option homestead percentages adopted by Harris County, the City of Houston, and other taxing units.

Population: 5,009,302 (July 1, 2024 estimate) ^[6]