Homestead Exemption Can Cut Your School Tax Bill

Texas law gives every homeowner a $140,000 exemption on their home's value for school tax purposes. You pay school taxes on what is left, not the full amount. Homeowners age 65 or older get an extra $60,000 school district exemption on top of that.

You apply through the Montgomery Central Appraisal District (MCAD). MCAD is the office that sets your property value for tax purposes. Apply at mcad-tx.org. The normal deadline is May 1, but late applications may still be accepted. Check MCAD for current deadlines. Some local taxing units offer extra reductions beyond the state minimum.