Texas offers assistance and programs for veterans, including property tax exemptions that can lead to tax savings. We’ll walk you through the veteran property tax exemption for Texas property owners, outlining who qualifies, how to apply, and the crucial deadlines.
What is the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption?
An exemption reduces the taxable property value, which is used to calculate property taxes. The disabled veteran exemption can reduce or even eliminate the property taxes owed on a veteran’s primary residence, depending on the degree of service-connected disability.
In Texas, the exemption amount is based on the veteran’s service-connected disability rating:
| Disability Rating | Exemption of the Property’s Value |
| 10 to 29% | Up to $5,000 |
| 30 to 49% | Up to $7,500 |
| 50 to 69% | Up to $10,000 |
| 70 to 100% | Up to $12,000 |
A disabled veteran age 65 or older may also qualify for an exemption of $12,000 of the assessed value of the property under one of the following conditions:
- Disability rating of at least 10 percent
- Totally blind in one or both eyes
- Has lost the use of one or more limbs
These exemptions are in addition to the Texas residence homestead exemption of $100,000. Learn about qualifications for the homestead exemption.
100 Percent Disabled Veteran Exemption
In addition, the Texas Property Tax Code provides a full exemption of the appraised value if a veteran has a 100% disability rating and receives 100% service-connected disability compensation.
Who Qualifies for the Exemption?
To qualify for a veteran property tax exemption in Texas, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Service Requirement: Must be an honorably discharged veteran.
- Disability Requirement: Must have a service-connected disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
- Residency Requirement: The property must be the veteran’s primary residence.
Surviving spouses of veterans are also eligible for the exemption if they have not remarried, and if they continue to live at the home. Surviving spouses can also transfer the exemption to another homestead as long as they are not remarried.
How to Apply for the Veteran Property Tax Exemption
Applying for a veteran property tax exemption in Texas involves three steps:
- Gather all necessary documentation, including ID, proof of disability from the Veterans Administration or military branch, and your military discharge papers (DD Form 214).
- Complete the exemption form. For the 100 Percent Disabled Veteran exemption, you’ll use the Application for Residence Homestead Exemption (Form 50-114). For a partial exemption, you’ll need to fill out the Disabled Veteran’s or Survivor’s Exemption Application (Form 50-135).
- Submit the completed application(s) along with your documentation to your county’s appraisal district office.
The deadline to apply for the veteran property tax exemption is typically April 30 of the tax year. However, applications may be submitted up to one year after the delinquency date (typically February 1) of the tax year in question.
Once the exemption is allowed, you do not have to reapply unless the property owner or eligibility changes. You are required to notify your appraisal district if eligibility changes.
Take Advantage of Property Tax Exemptions
The veteran property tax exemption is a valuable benefit for those who have served our country and are navigating the complexities of homeownership in Texas. Some counties may offer additional relief for veterans, so it’s important to check with your local appraisal district for any local provisions.
If you’re a veteran or a surviving spouse of a veteran and need assistance with your property tax exemption application or have questions about your eligibility, contact North Texas Property Tax Services. We’re here to help ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.