If you bought a home in Bastrop and live in it, the homestead exemption is one of the best money-saving forms you will ever fill out. Texas law now sets the school homestead exemption at $140,000, and filing is free, the Texas Tribune reports.
How much does the homestead exemption take off?
The $140,000 exemption comes off your home’s taxable value for school taxes. Homeowners who are 65 or older, or who have a qualifying disability, get an additional $60,000. School taxes are often a big part of the bill, so this one matters. For more on reading that bill, see our post on your first Bastrop County property tax bill.
When can new buyers file?
According to the Texas Tribune:
- You can apply once you own the home and live in it as your primary residence.
- If the previous owner had an exemption, wait until the new year to apply.
- If the previous owner did not have one, apply as soon as you can to get it for the rest of the year.
The standard deadline is April 30 for homeowners who lived in the home on Jan. 1. If you miss it, you can still apply up to two years after that year’s taxes are paid.
What do you need to send?
Most homeowners need a Texas driver license or state ID and a clear copy of it. The address on your ID must match the home’s address, so update your license first if you just moved. (New to Texas? Here is how to register your car, too.)
Appraisal districts must accept the Texas Comptroller’s Residence Homestead Exemption Application. The district has 90 days to decide, and once you are approved you generally do not need to reapply.
How do you file in Bastrop County?
The Bastrop Central Appraisal District accepts applications three ways:
- Mail: P.O. Box 578, Bastrop, TX 78602
- Email: [email protected], as a legible PDF (photos of the form are not accepted)
- Drop box: on the south side of the building at 212 Jackson St., Bastrop
The office is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at (512) 303-1930. Call them with questions about your own property.
Buying soon?
We walk every buyer through this step after closing. If you are getting ready to buy or sell, reach out to us, or start with our Moving to Bastrop guide.
Frequently asked questions
- How much is the Texas homestead exemption in 2026?
- Texas law sets the school homestead exemption at $140,000. Homeowners 65 or older, or with a qualifying disability, get an additional $60,000, the Texas Tribune reports.
- When can I file for a homestead exemption after buying a home?
- You can apply once you own and live in the home as your primary residence. If the previous owner already had an exemption, the Texas Tribune says you wait until the new year to apply.
- What is the deadline for the Texas homestead exemption?
- If you lived in the home on Jan. 1, the deadline is April 30. You can also apply late, up to two years after that year's taxes are paid.
- How do I file a homestead exemption in Bastrop County?
- Send the application to the Bastrop Central Appraisal District by mail to P.O. Box 578, Bastrop, TX 78602, by email as a PDF to [email protected], or in the drop box at 212 Jackson St.
- Does it cost money to file a homestead exemption?
- No. Filing for a homestead exemption is free.
Sources
- Texas Tribune: How to apply for a Texas homestead exemption
- Bastrop Central Appraisal District: Exemptions
Thinking about moving to Bastrop? Start with our moving guide and neighborhood guide, or send us a question.
