A homestead exemption limits how fast your taxable value can rise

Texas law caps how much the taxable value of your home can rise each year — but only if you have a homestead exemption on file. With the exemption, the taxable value can increase no more than 10 percent per year. Without it, there is no cap. That means a big jump in market values can push your tax bill up sharply if you never filed.

You file the exemption form with the Freestone Central Appraisal District in Fairfield, not the tax office. You only need to file once, but you must own and live in the home on January 1 of the tax year. Download the form at freestonecad.org or pick it up at 218 N. Mount St. Fairfield. Deadlines and exemption amounts can change, so check the appraisal district's website or the Texas Comptroller's site for current rules.