Homestead and ag-use exemptions can cut your tax bill

If you live in your home as your primary residence, you can apply for a general homestead exemption. Texas law requires school districts to give a $140,000 exemption off your home's appraised value. Other local taxing units may offer additional exemptions up to 20 percent. You apply at the Throckmorton CAD; you will need a copy of your Texas driver's license showing your home address.

If your land is used for farming, ranching, or wildlife management, it may qualify for a 1-d-1 open-space (ag) appraisal. This means the land is taxed on its productivity value, not its market value — which can mean a much lower tax bill on large rural tracts. You apply at the CAD. The Texas Comptroller's site has the official forms and explains what qualifies.