Harris County commissioners unanimously voted May 16 to increase the homestead exemption for seniors and disabled homeowners. The increase is applied to the appraised value of a resident’s homestead and will go into effect for the 2023 tax year for bills that go out in October, according to officials with Precinct 2.
The impact: Those who are legally defined as disabled or for those age 65 or older could qualify for an additional $25,000 off the appraised value of their homes. According to Harris County Appraisal District documents, if you are over 65 and disabled, you may either receive the over 65-exemption or the disability homestead exemption, but not both.
- For those who meet the age or disability requirements, the $25,000 increase raises the 2022 exemption from $250,000-$275,000.
- The savings for qualified persons would average $130/year.
Terms to know: The Harris County Appraisal District defines a homestead as generally the house and land used as the homeowner’s principal residence Jan. 1 of the current tax year.
Quote of note: “Once again, we deliver real savings to people desperate for help. This latest increase of the exemption should negate the impact of rising appraisal values on families across Harris County,” Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia said in a news release.
Going forward: Reaching 65 years does not automatically exempt senior homeowners from paying property taxes, according to Harris County Appraisal District guidelines.
- Seniors who need to apply can obtain a homestead exemption form online at www.hcad.org under the “popular forms” tab.
- For more information or details on homestead exemption eligibility, click this document here.
- Or contact the Harris County Appraisal District, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at 713-957-7800.
