Homestead Exemption Cuts Your School Tax Bill

Texas law requires every school district to give homeowners a $140,000 exemption on the school portion of their property tax. That means $140,000 is subtracted from your home's appraised value before the school tax rate is applied. This can save you a significant amount each year.

You apply once with the Franklin County Appraisal District — not the tax office. The general deadline is April 30 of the tax year, but Texas also allows a late filing. You must own the home and use it as your primary residence. Other taxing units in the county may offer their own local exemptions on top of the school exemption. Check with the appraisal district at franklin-cad.org for current rules.