Harris County Homeowners looking to take advantage of tax breaks to see if they qualify have until end of day Thursday. The Harris County Appraisal District has launched an “Exemption Wizard,” a short questionnaire designed to help residents determine which exemptions they’re eligible for without visiting an office.
Senator Paul Bettencourt says it’s extremely important to take advantage of the homestead exemption which applies to all ages and has an impact on county, city, and school taxes. “It’s literally worth on average basis, about $1,000.00 a year.” Bettencourt said.
People over 65 and the disabled can save more. “Not only do they get an even bigger deduction at the city, county, and the school district. You can actually have places where they pay zero tax.” He said.
Last year, the exemption was $100,000, but now it has been raised this year to $140,000, meaning if you apply, you could lower the taxable value of your home by $140,000.
For those planning to protest their values- they have until May 15th or 30 days after an appraised value has been mailed.
County officials announced a pre-payment program that allows homeowners to begin paying toward their 2026 tax bill now in smaller, monthly amounts. The tax office also continues to offer payment plans for those with existing tax debt, including 12, 24, and 36-month options with flexible due dates.