Looking for a straightforward way to lower your property tax bill on your Katy-area home in 77082? If you own and live in your home as your primary residence, the Texas residence homestead exemption can reduce your taxable value and save you money each year. The process is simpler than you might think once you know the rules and deadlines. In this guide, you will learn who qualifies, when to file, how to apply through Harris County, and what kind of savings to expect. Let’s dive in.
Homestead exemption basics
A Texas residence homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your principal residence. It lowers the amount of property taxes you pay to applicable taxing units. The exemption does not change your appraised value. It only reduces the value used to calculate your taxes.
State law provides a baseline benefit for homeowners. You receive a $25,000 exemption from the taxable value used for school district operating taxes. Local taxing units like counties, cities, and special districts may offer additional exemptions. The amounts and rules can vary, so check your property’s taxing units for specifics.
You can claim the exemption on only one property at a time. The home must be your principal residence. Ownership and occupancy on January 1 are the key tests for eligibility in a given tax year.
Who qualifies in 77082
To qualify, you must both own the property and use it as your principal residence on January 1 of the tax year. If you closed on or before January 1 and you live there as your primary home, you are typically eligible for that year’s exemption. If you closed after January 1, your eligibility begins the next tax year.
You can only claim one residence homestead exemption at a time. Be prepared to show proof of ownership and identity. A Texas driver’s license or state ID that matches the homestead address is commonly requested. Harris County Appraisal District publishes exact document lists and alternatives if you do not hold a Texas ID.
If you are 65 or older, disabled, or a disabled veteran, you may qualify for additional exemptions. These can further reduce taxes and in some cases limit school taxes from increasing on that home.
Key dates to remember
- January 1: You must own and occupy the home as your principal residence on this date to qualify for that tax year.
- April 30: File your homestead application by this date to receive the exemption for that year.
- If you file after April 30, the exemption usually starts the following year. Some appraisal districts may accept late filings in limited circumstances.
Once special exemptions like the age 65 school tax ceiling are granted, they typically continue while you own and occupy the home. Always monitor your notices for any updates or requested documents.
How to file in Harris County
Most Katy-area addresses in 77082 are served by the Harris County Appraisal District. If your property crosses a county line, verify which appraisal district applies before you file.
Confirm your appraisal district and current exemptions. Use the Harris County Appraisal District’s homestead page to search your property record and see existing exemptions. You can start on the HCAD homestead page and follow the application prompts. Visit the HCAD homestead and exemptions page.
Choose a filing method that works for you.
- Online: Many owners can apply through the HCAD online portal. Create an account, locate your property, and upload the required documents.
- Mail: Print and sign the application, then mail it with copies of your documents.
- In person: You can file at HCAD offices. Office hours and procedures are listed on the HCAD site.
- Gather the required documents.
- Signed homestead application
- Proof of ownership such as your deed or closing statement
- Texas driver’s license or Texas personal ID showing the homestead address, or other approved identification noted by HCAD
Submit and track. HCAD will review your application. You will receive an approval or a denial with an explanation and next steps.
After approval, the exemption will reduce the taxable value on future bills. The Harris County Tax Office manages billing and payments. If you need payment information, visit the Harris County Tax Office.
If your Katy address is in Fort Bend County, file through the Fort Bend Central Appraisal District. Their exemption process and forms are listed at the Fort Bend CAD exemptions page.
What documents to gather
HCAD publishes the full list, but most homeowners will need the following:
- Completed residence homestead application
- Proof of ownership such as a deed or closing disclosure
- A Texas driver’s license or Texas ID with the homestead address that matches your application
If you do not have a Texas ID, HCAD notes alternatives. Check the current list on the HCAD homestead and exemptions page before you start.
How savings work
Homestead exemptions reduce your taxable value, not your appraised value. Your tax bill is calculated by multiplying the taxable value by the applicable tax rate for each taxing unit. The statewide baseline is a $25,000 exemption on school district operating taxes. This does not apply to school district bond taxes.
Here is a simplified example. Assume an appraised value of $300,000 and a school operating rate of 1.0 percent. With the $25,000 exemption, the taxable value for school operating taxes becomes $275,000. The annual school operating tax would be $2,750 versus $3,000 without the exemption. That is a $250 reduction in this example. Your actual savings may be higher if local taxing units offer additional exemptions.
Special exemptions to know
Some homeowners qualify for added relief beyond the general residence homestead exemption:
- Age 65 or older and disabled homeowners may qualify for additional exemptions. School taxes on that residence may also be limited from increasing after the exemption is granted.
- Disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses may be eligible for separate, often larger exemptions. The amount varies based on disability rating and specific qualifications.
These programs have specific documentation requirements. Start with HCAD for forms, lists of accepted documents, and filing steps. You can also review statewide rules on the Texas Comptroller’s residence homestead page.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the April 30 filing deadline for the current year.
- Filing in the wrong county when your property is located across county lines.
- Submitting a driver’s license or ID that does not show the homestead address.
- Assuming your exemption transfers to a new home. You need to reapply for your new homestead.
- Overlooking additional exemptions for age, disability, or veteran status.
Mortgage escrow tips
If your lender escrows property taxes, your monthly payment might be based on a pre-exemption estimate. After your exemption is approved, contact your mortgage servicer to request an escrow review. Each lender has its own process and timeline for adjustments.
Moving to a new homestead
If you sell your current homestead and buy another, you need to file a new homestead application for the new property. Exemptions do not move automatically. Apply as soon as you establish the new home as your principal residence and keep the January 1 ownership and occupancy rule in mind for the tax year you want to claim.
Local contacts and links
- File or manage your application at the HCAD homestead and exemptions page.
- Review statewide rules on the Texas Comptroller’s residence homestead page.
- For billing and payment questions, visit the Harris County Tax Office.
- If your Katy address is in Fort Bend County, see the Fort Bend CAD exemptions page.
Ready for help with timing and steps
Buying or selling around year-end can affect your eligibility, escrow, and tax planning. If you are moving into or out of the Katy 77082 area, we will help you plan the right timeline and coordinate your move so you file correctly and on time. For a clear, step-by-step plan tailored to your situation, schedule a quick conversation with The Jesse Group.
FAQs
What is the Texas residence homestead exemption?
- It reduces the taxable value of your principal residence, which lowers property taxes for applicable taxing units. A statewide $25,000 exemption applies to school district operating taxes.
What is the filing deadline in Harris County for 77082 homes?
- File by April 30 to receive the exemption for that tax year. You can apply later, but it usually applies to the next tax year.
How do I apply for a homestead exemption in Katy 77082?
- Apply through the Harris County Appraisal District using the HCAD homestead and exemptions page. You can file online, by mail, or in person.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
- You will typically need a completed application, proof of ownership such as a deed or closing statement, and a Texas driver’s license or state ID that shows the homestead address.
What if I bought my home after January 1?
- You can file at any time, but you will generally qualify starting the next tax year because you must own and occupy the home on January 1 of the tax year.
Can I apply if my Katy address is in Fort Bend County?
- Yes, but you must file with the correct appraisal district. If your property is in Fort Bend County, apply through the Fort Bend CAD exemptions page.
Does the exemption change my appraised value?
- No. It reduces your taxable value, not your appraised value. Your tax bill is calculated by multiplying the taxable value by each taxing unit’s rate.
Do I need to reapply if I move?
- Yes. A homestead exemption does not transfer between homes. File a new application with the appraisal district where your new home is located.
