Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption In Texas: How To Qualify And Apply

Key Takeaways:

• Eligibility Factors: Your VA disability rating, ownership status, and homestead use determine your exemption level.
• Application Accuracy: Correct forms, matching identification, and complete supporting documents prevent processing delays.
• Maximized Savings: Many homeowners can pair the veteran exemption with other exemptions to reduce taxable value further.

For many disabled veterans living in Texas, property taxes can be a significant expense, even after years of service and sacrifice. Fortunately, the state offers a property tax exemption that provides real financial relief for veterans with a qualifying VA disability rating. Understanding how this exemption works, who qualifies, what forms are required, and how to apply can make a meaningful difference in a homeowner’s budget. This exemption can also extend to surviving spouses, which adds an extra layer of support for families navigating life after military service.

At Harding & Carbone, we’ve been helping Texans reduce their property taxes for over five decades. Our team brings decades of experience handling the finer points of property tax exemptions, valuations, and savings strategies. We handle every detail, whether working with individual homeowners or large commercial portfolios. As a trusted name in Texas property tax consulting, we know the ins and outs of each county’s process and make the exemption process more efficient, more accurate, and less stressful.

Service-Connected Disability Ratings And Tax Savings

Property tax exemptions for disabled veterans in Texas are directly tied to your VA disability rating. Understanding how these ratings translate into real-world savings can help you take full advantage of the relief available to you. Here’s how the rating system works and what it could mean for your tax bill:

How VA Disability Ratings Affect Property Tax Relief In Texas

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) assigns disability ratings in 10 percent increments, ranging from 10 to 100 percent. Texas recognizes these ratings as the basis for calculating property tax exemptions on a veteran’s primary residence. The higher the rating, the larger the exemption you may be eligible to receive.

A Breakdown Of Exemption Amounts By Disability Rating

Veterans with a disability rating between 10 and 29 percent qualify for a $5,000 exemption from their home’s appraised value. A 30 to 49 percent rating increases that to $7,500, while those rated between 50 and 69 percent receive a $10,000 reduction. A rating from 70 to 99 percent qualifies for a $12,000 exemption, and those with a 100 percent rating are eligible for a full property tax exemption on their homestead.

What Happens If Your Disability Rating Changes

If your rating increases, your exemption level may rise accordingly starting in the following tax year. It’s important to submit your updated VA documentation to your local appraisal district as soon as possible to avoid delays. Keeping your records current helps ensure that you’re receiving the full benefit of your entitled savings.

Do Surviving Spouses Or Children Benefit From The Veteran’s Rating?

In many cases, yes. The same exemption benefits may carry over to surviving spouses and, in some instances, minor children. Eligibility depends on additional criteria such as residency and marital status at the time of the veteran’s death, which we’ll explore further in the next section. Learn more about our property tax reduction services and how we support veterans and their families.

Surviving Spouse Benefits And Rules

Texas extends property tax relief not only to disabled veterans but also to their surviving spouses. These benefits can ease financial stress after the loss of a veteran, but specific qualifications must be met to continue receiving or transferring the exemption. Below is a breakdown of how eligibility works and what surviving spouses should know:

Marriage Status At The Time Of The Veteran’s Passing

To qualify, the surviving spouse must have been married to the veteran at the time of their death. The law requires proof of the marital relationship, which typically involves submitting a marriage certificate along with the application. Without documentation confirming the marriage, the exemption cannot be transferred.

Maintaining The Home As A Primary Residence

The surviving spouse must continue to use the home as their principal residence. This means the property must be the spouse’s actual place of living, not a rental or secondary home. The exemption applies only while the spouse lives in the same residence that qualified under the veteran’s name.

Impact Of Remarriage On Eligibility

A surviving spouse is eligible to retain the property tax exemption as long as they do not remarry. If the spouse does remarry, the exemption generally ends, regardless of whether they continue living in the home. This is a critical factor to consider when planning long-term finances and future living arrangements.

How The Exemption Amount Transfers

If the deceased veteran had a full (100 percent) disability rating from the VA, the surviving spouse may qualify for a full property tax exemption on the same property. In cases where the veteran had a partial disability rating, the same percentage-based exemption can be applied to the spouse. All eligibility requirements must still be met, including proof of marriage and continued residence.

Required Forms: 50-114 And 50-135 Walk-Through

Applying for the disabled veteran property tax exemption in Texas starts with two essential forms. These documents serve as the foundation of your exemption application and must be filled out completely and accurately. Understanding what each form covers will help prevent delays and simplify the approval process.

Form 50-114: Application For Residence Homestead Exemption

Form 50-114 verifies that the property you are applying for is your primary residence. It requires details such as the legal property description, ownership documentation, and a Texas driver’s license or state ID with a matching address. Submitting this form with consistent and correct information across all paperwork helps prevent delays.

Form 50-135: Disabled Veteran Or Survivor Exemption Application

Form 50-135 is used to apply for the property tax exemption specific to disabled veterans or their qualifying survivors. It must be submitted with a VA disability rating letter that confirms your service-connected rating. Survivors must also include documentation like a marriage certificate or birth certificate to show their relationship to the veteran.

Submission And Tracking Of Forms

Each Texas county has its own appraisal district that handles application processing, so be sure to follow their instructions for submitting the forms. While some allow in-person delivery or mailing, others may offer digital options. Always keep copies of everything you submit in case you need to reference or resend them later.

Important Deadlines For Filing Applications

Missing a deadline can result in delayed or reduced property tax savings, even if you fully qualify for the exemption. Texas law sets clear timelines for submitting applications, and knowing these dates ahead of time helps avoid complications. Here’s what to keep in mind when preparing your paperwork:

The April 30 Filing Deadline

The primary deadline to file for the disabled veteran property tax exemption is April 30 of the tax year for which you are applying. Applications must be submitted to your local county appraisal district. Submitting early gives your application more time to be reviewed and helps ensure that any missing documents can be addressed before the deadline.

Late Filing Rules And Exceptions

If you miss the April 30 deadline, you may still apply for the exemption up to two years after the delinquency date. However, late submissions must include supporting documentation and may require an explanation for the delay. While Texas law allows some flexibility, retroactive savings are not always guaranteed and are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Importance Of Checking Local Requirements

Each appraisal district in Texas may have slightly different submission procedures or additional documentation requests. Always check with your county’s appraisal district to confirm what is required and how to submit your application. Some counties may offer online filing, while others still require mailed or in-person submissions.

Planning Ahead For Future Tax Years

Once your exemption is approved, you typically do not need to reapply each year unless your eligibility changes or you move to a new primary residence. If you relocate, be sure to notify your new appraisal district and submit updated documentation to continue receiving the exemption. Keeping a calendar reminder of the annual deadline can help avoid missed opportunities for tax relief. To speak with a property tax expert or get help with your exemption application, visit our contact page.

Gathering Military And Medical Documentation

The strength of your application for the disabled veteran property tax exemption depends on the quality and completeness of your supporting documents. Clear, organized paperwork helps your local appraisal district process your claim more efficiently. Below is a guide to assembling the documents most commonly required:

Proof Of Military Service

Start by including a copy of your DD214 or other official military discharge papers. This document confirms your service history, including your branch, service dates, and discharge status. It must be legible and complete, as incomplete or low-quality copies can delay review.

VA Disability Award Letter

Your current VA disability award letter is essential, as it contains the percentage rating that determines the exemption level. This letter should come directly from the Department of Veterans Affairs and clearly list your service-connected rating. If your rating has changed recently, request an updated letter before applying to ensure your paperwork reflects the correct exemption tier.

Medical Documentation For Accessibility Features

If your home includes modifications made to accommodate a service-connected condition, consider submitting a brief letter from a medical provider. This documentation can support claims involving adjusted home use, such as the need for a wheelchair ramp or widened doorways. The letter should be specific, concise, and directly tied to your service-related needs.

Organizing Your Packet For Submission

Before sending your documents, put them in a logical order and label each section clearly. Begin with the DD214, followed by the VA award letter, medical statements if applicable, and completed forms such as 50-114 and 50-135. Be sure to include your contact information and property address on the first page.

Combining Disabled Veteran And Other Homestead Exemptions

In Texas, disabled veterans can combine multiple property tax exemptions to reduce their overall taxable home value. When used together, these exemptions can significantly ease the financial burden of property ownership. Understanding how each exemption applies helps you make the most of available tax relief:

The Standard Residence Homestead Exemption

This exemption is available to all Texas homeowners who use the property as their primary residence. It reduces the taxable value of the home for school district taxes, lowering the base amount on which taxes are calculated. For example, a home valued at $250,000 might receive a $40,000 reduction before any additional exemptions are applied.

Adding The Disabled Veteran Exemption

Once the standard homestead exemption is applied, veterans with a qualified disability rating can add the disabled veteran exemption on top of it. The amount of this exemption is based on the rating percentage, with veterans at 100 percent receiving a full exemption. For those with lower ratings, the exemption removes a fixed dollar amount from the already reduced home value.

Other Applicable Exemptions

Some homeowners may also qualify for additional exemptions, such as those available to individuals aged 65 or older or surviving spouses of qualified veterans. These can be layered on top of both the homestead and disabled veteran exemptions. Each exemption type must be applied for separately, but when combined, they can lead to a much lower tax bill.

Coordinating Exemptions For Maximum Benefit

When applying for multiple exemptions, accuracy and consistency across all forms are essential. Your county appraisal district will use the information submitted to calculate your total exemption amount. Make sure all supporting documentation matches across each exemption application to avoid delays or partial approvals.

Final Thoughts

For disabled veterans and their families, Texas offers meaningful property tax exemptions that provide long-term financial relief. These exemptions not only recognize the sacrifices made during military service but also help ensure that homeownership remains affordable. By understanding the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and application process, veterans and their surviving spouses can take full advantage of the benefits available to them.

Although the process involves specific forms, deadlines, and supporting documents, it becomes more manageable with the right preparation. Staying organized and informed helps prevent delays and ensures that exemptions are applied correctly. From filing the initial forms to updating disability ratings and combining multiple exemptions, each step plays an important role in reducing your property tax obligations.

Harding & Carbone is committed to helping Texas veterans and their families navigate property tax relief with clarity and professionalism. To speak with a property tax expert or get help with your exemption application, visit our main website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption In Texas

Can I apply for the disabled veteran exemption if my name is not the only one on the deed?

Yes. You can still qualify as long as you have an ownership interest in the property and it is your principal residence. Your county appraisal district may request additional ownership documentation to confirm eligibility.

Does the exemption apply to all property taxes or only certain parts of the tax bill?

The exemption impacts the taxable value of your homestead, which affects multiple taxing entities. If you qualify for a full exemption, it generally removes the entire property tax obligation on that residence, but application details may still vary slightly by local jurisdiction.

What if my VA disability rating is temporary or scheduled for review?

You can still apply using your current VA award letter. If your rating changes later, you should notify the appraisal district and provide updated documentation so the exemption reflects your current status.

If I recently bought a home, when do the savings start?

Savings typically begin once the exemption is approved for that tax year. Timing depends on when your application is submitted and processed, so applying soon after closing helps avoid delays.

Can I receive the exemption if I live in the home part time but maintain another residence?

Generally no. The exemption is tied to your principal residence, meaning it must be the primary place you live. If the home is not your main residence, the appraisal district may deny the exemption.

Does receiving this exemption affect other VA benefits or federal programs?

No. This is a Texas property tax exemption and does not reduce or replace VA compensation or federal benefits. It is considered separate from federal disability programs.

Do I need a Texas driver’s license before applying?

Most counties require proof of Texas residency, and the address on your Texas driver’s license or state ID usually must match the homestead address. If you recently moved, update your ID before submitting the application.

What happens if the appraisal district denies my exemption application?

If your application is denied, the district should provide a reason and may allow you to correct the issue or provide missing documentation. You can also ask for clarification and request an appeal process if needed.

Can I apply online, or does it have to be mailed in?

Some county appraisal districts offer online submission options, while others require mail or in-person delivery. Check your local county appraisal district’s website to confirm submission methods.

If I rent out part of my home, does that disqualify me?

Not always, but it can complicate eligibility. The key factor is whether the property remains your principal residence. Your county appraisal district may ask additional questions about occupancy and use of the home.