Applying for the Fort Bend County homestead exemption can lower your property taxes. But missing the deadline can cost you valuable savings. Whether you’re applying for a first-time exemption or a retroactive claim, understanding the application process and deadlines can help maximize your benefits.
Here’s how to file for the Fort Bend County homestead exemption on time and make homeownership more affordable.
Understand the Homestead Exemption
If you want to save money on property taxes and preserve your home’s equity, the homestead exemption is a great option. This exemption decreases the taxed portion of your home’s value, which can reduce your property taxes by up to 20%.
You may qualify for this and other tax exemptions and save significant money over time if you are a Texas resident and the property is your primary residence.
Difference Between Market Value and Appraised Value
Your home’s market value is its selling price in the open market. It depends on factors like location, size, and recent sales of similar homes. The appraised value is what the county appraisal district assigns for tax purposes, representing the taxable part of your home’s market value.
A homestead exemption lowers your home’s appraised value and limits tax hikes to 10% yearly, keeping annual property taxes stable. It keeps the appraised value below the market value. This means you’ll pay taxes only on the appraised value instead of the full market value, which could fluctuate with inflation and demand.
Understanding this difference and applying for Texas’s homestead exemption in Fort Bend County ensures you’re not overpaying in taxes.
Overview of Tax Ceiling Certificates
A tax ceiling is the maximum amount of property tax you must pay for your home. Getting a tax ceiling certificate limits how much your taxes can increase each year, helping you save money in the long run. It prevents your property taxes from increasing once you qualify for an exemption if you’re over 65 or disabled.
When you move to a new home in Texas, you can take this benefit with you, so your taxes stay the same. It helps make sure your taxes don’t rise suddenly.
Key Eligibility Criteria for Fort Bend County
To qualify for the Fort Bend County homestead exemption, you must meet these criteria:
Primary residence: The home must be your main residence as of January 1. You can only claim the homestead exemption for one property.
Ownership: You must own the property to qualify.
Texas resident: You must provide a valid Texas ID with the same address as the property you’re claiming the exemption for.
You may also qualify for the homestead exemption if you are the surviving spouse of a qualified homeowner.
Special Considerations for Seniors at Age 65
Once you reach age 65, the homestead exemption benefits expand, offering additional savings to help you manage property taxes on a fixed income. As a senior, you can get additional exemptions and a tax ceiling certificate, limiting future increases in school taxes that fund local schools.
Homestead Exemptions vs. Other Exemptions
In Fort Bend County, Texas, the homestead exemption lowers your home’s taxable amount by $100,000 for school taxes. Some counties also give up to 20% off your home’s value, with a minimum exemption of $5,000.
But other property tax exemptions can offer additional savings:
Property owners over 65 and those with disabilities qualify for an extra $10,000 exemption for school taxes. This freezes the school tax amount, which won’t increase unless you make home improvements.
Disabled veterans with a 100% disability rating don’t pay property taxes on their homes. Those with a 10% to 90% disability rating receive a tax reduction between $5,000 and $12,000 off their home’s taxable value.
Surviving spouses of military service members or first responders killed in action or on duty may qualify to have property taxes completely waived.
You can combine these exemptions to maximize your tax savings. Check with your local appraisal district to learn which exemptions you qualify for.
Important Deadlines to Remember
These dates will help you meet the deadlines to file a homestead exemption in Fort Bend County:
January 1: To qualify, your property must be your primary residence as of this date.
April 30: This is the last day to file your application for the current tax year.
May 15: This is the deadline to file a protest if you disagree with your property’s appraised value. It can help you lower property taxes for the next year.
You may be able to file a homestead exemption late, even for past years, but check with your appraisal district for eligibility.
Steps To Apply for the Homestead Exemption
If you’re ready to file your homestead exemption in Fort Bend County, follow these steps to start saving on your property taxes.
Required Documents for Application
Fill out and submit form 50-114, the homestead exemption application form. To apply, you’ll need proof of identity, such as a Texas driver’s license or state ID showing the property’s address. You may also need a property deed or mortgage statement to verify ownership.
If you’re applying for senior or disability exemptions, you’ll need to provide your Social Security Number. You may also have to show proof of residency, such as a utility bill.
Submitting Your Application: Where and How
To file your homestead exemption online in Fort Bend County, visit the Fort Bend County Appraisal District (CAD) website.
You can also submit your completed forms 50-114 and other documents in person at the Fort Bend CAD office. Alternatively, you can mail your application to the CAD office. But submit the application in advance to account for the processing time.
What To Do After Submitting Your Application
You'll get a confirmation receipt when the CAD office receives your application. They’ll review your information and notify you of their decision. Check your property tax bill for approved exemptions. Keep a copy of the approval notice and any related correspondence for your records.
If your application is denied, you can file an appeal or reapply next year.
FAQs
How Much Can I Save with a Homestead Exemption?
The savings vary based on your home’s value and the local tax rate. However, the exemption can significantly reduce your annual property taxes.
Do I Need To Reapply Every Year?
You don’t need to reapply for homestead exemption every year. However, under the new law SB 1801, appraisal districts will verify eligibility for the homestead exemption at least once every five years. If your circumstances change, you may need to resubmit your application.
Can I Transfer My Exemption if I Move?
If you move houses, you can’t transfer your homestead exemption. You can apply for the exemption at your new address as long as it’s your primary residence.
How Do I Check My Fort Bend County Homestead Exemption Status?
You can check the status of your homestead exemption by visiting the Fort Bend CAD website or contacting the office directly. They’ll provide details on whether your exemption has been approved or is in progress.
How Do I Remove My Homestead Exemption in Fort Bend County?
Submit a written request to the Fort Bend CAD to remove your homestead exemption. You can also remove the exemption online by checking a box on the Fort Bend CAD website. They’ll process the request and adjust your property taxes accordingly.
Where Do I File a Fort Bend County Texas Homestead Exemption?
You can file homestead exemption applications online via the Fort Bend CAD website. You can also submit it in person or by mail. Make sure you include all required documents when submitting.
What if My Application Is Denied?
If your homestead exemption application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The Fort Bend CAD will provide instructions on how to file an appeal. This may involve presenting additional documentation or evidence to support your case.
At Ownwell, our property tax consultants can help you appeal and retroactively apply for the homestead exemption in Fort Bend County, Texas, for up to three years.
Contact us, and let our experienced property tax experts handle your exemptions to maximize your savings.
