Buying a home in College Station comes with a lot of firsts, and the homestead exemption is one that can put real money back in your pocket. If you own and live in the home, you may be able to lower your taxable value and reduce your annual property tax bill. That boost to cash flow can make a real difference in your first year of ownership and beyond. In this guide, you’ll learn who qualifies, how much you might save, and exactly when and how to file in Brazos County. Let’s dive in.
What a homestead exemption does
A residence homestead exemption removes part of your home’s appraised value from taxation. That reduction lowers the taxable value used by your school district, the county, the City of College Station, and any special districts that tax your property. Lower taxable value means a lower tax bill and more predictable cash flow for your household.
In Brazos County, the Brazos County Appraisal District reviews and grants homestead exemptions. The tax office sends and collects the tax bills, but the appraisal district is the authority that approves your exemption. Your actual savings depend on how much value is exempted and the combined local tax rate in your area.
Who qualifies in Brazos County
Basic eligibility
To qualify, you must own the property and use it as your principal residence on January 1 of the tax year. You can claim only one homestead exemption at a time. This is a primary‑residence benefit, not for second homes or rentals.
One homestead rule and timing
Texas allows one residence homestead per person. If you moved into your College Station home on or before January 1, you can apply for that tax year. If you purchased after January 1, you should still apply as soon as you qualify. The appraisal district can advise you on timing and any late or retroactive options available under state law.
Proof of residency and documents
You will need to certify that the home is your principal residence. A Texas driver’s license or state ID that shows the same address as the property is commonly required. If your ID does not yet match, the appraisal district lists acceptable alternatives, such as a utility bill, voter registration, or vehicle registration that shows the address. Keep your deed or closing statement to verify ownership.
Additional exemptions you should know
- Over‑65 and disabled homeowners: These may provide additional value reductions and school tax protections beyond the general homestead. If you qualify, you can apply when you reach age 65 or when you become eligible for disability status.
- Disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses: Texas offers special exemptions for qualified disabled veterans based on disability rating. In some cases, a surviving spouse can continue to receive the exemption under state law.
Specific amounts and coverage vary by taxing unit and can change. Always verify current details with the appraisal district and state guidance before you apply.
How much you could save
The homestead exemption reduces your taxable value, not the tax rate. Your savings equal the amount of value removed multiplied by your combined local tax rate.
Savings formula: Exemption amount multiplied by combined tax rate equals estimated annual savings.
Sample calculation method
- Find your certified appraised value.
- Subtract the homestead exemption or exemptions you qualify for. The result is your taxable value.
- Multiply the taxable value by your combined tax rate to estimate your tax bill.
- Compare the bill with and without the exemption to see your savings.
Example for illustration only: If the exemption removes 10,000 dollars of value and your combined tax rate is 2.3 percent, your savings are about 230 dollars for the year. Your numbers will depend on your property’s value, your actual exemptions, and the current tax rates where you live.
Why savings vary
Some exemptions apply only to school taxes, while others may apply to city and county taxes too. Over‑65 and disabled exemptions can offer larger reductions and certain school tax ceiling protections. Your combined tax rate, which includes school district, city, county, and any special district rates, drives the final dollar amount of savings.
When and how to file
Key deadline to remember
To receive the exemption for the current tax year, submit your application to the appraisal district by April 30. If you miss the deadline or you acquired your home after January 1, apply as soon as you qualify. The appraisal district can advise you on any available late options.
Where to apply
Apply with the Brazos County Appraisal District. You may be able to file online if an online portal is available, or you can submit by mail or in person. Remember, the appraisal district handles exemptions. The tax office handles billing and collections after exemptions are approved.
What you will need
- Proof of ownership, such as a deed or closing statement
- Texas driver’s license or state ID that shows the property address, or approved alternative documents if your ID is not updated
- For over‑65 or disabled exemptions, proof of age or qualifying disability
- For disabled veterans, VA documentation that shows your disability rating
Step‑by‑step filing checklist
- Step 1: Gather your deed or closing statement and your Texas driver’s license or state ID.
- Step 2: If your ID does not show the property address, update it or collect approved alternative documents like a utility bill or voter registration.
- Step 3: Visit the Brazos County Appraisal District website and locate the homestead exemption or exemptions page.
- Step 4: Complete the application. If an online option is available, submit through the portal. Otherwise, print and mail or deliver it in person.
- Step 5: Keep copies of everything you submit. If you file in person, request a stamped receipt.
- Step 6: Watch for the appraisal district’s approval notice. When approved, your next tax statement will reflect the reduced taxable value.
New homeowner quick tips
- Update your Texas ID address right after closing to avoid delays.
- Apply by April 30 for the current year when possible.
- Keep your closing documents handy. You will use the deed or closing statement as proof of ownership.
- Only one homestead at a time. If you sell, notify the appraisal district so they can remove the exemption from your former home.
- Investors and owners of second homes should not apply. The exemption is for a principal residence only.
Bilingual help and Spanish‑friendly tips
- Show these phrases when preparing your documents:
- “Exención de la vivienda principal”
- “Fecha límite: 30 de abril”
- “Prueba de propiedad: escritura o comprobante de cierre”
- “Documento de identidad: licencia de conducir de Texas o identificación del estado con la dirección de la vivienda”
- Simple steps in Spanish: “Reúna la escritura y su licencia de Texas, visite la página del Brazos County Appraisal District y busque ‘homestead exemption’ o ‘exención de vivienda’.”
- If you prefer to speak in Spanish, call the appraisal district and ask for Spanish‑language assistance or translated materials. Many offices can connect you with a translator.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Waiting past April 30 without checking whether you still have options
- Forgetting to update your Texas ID address before applying
- Submitting mortgage statements or federal forms instead of the specific documents the appraisal district requires
- Trying to claim a homestead on a rental, second home, or investment property
After you file: what to expect
The appraisal district reviews your application and either approves or denies it. If approved, they adjust your home’s taxable value and notify the taxing units. You will receive a notice showing the exemption and the effective tax year. The tax office then issues your annual statement with the updated taxable value and the resulting tax due.
Trusted local support
If you are a first‑time homeowner or new to Aggieland, you do not have to navigate this alone. Our team works with College Station homeowners every day and can help you understand the steps, gather the right documents, and stay on schedule for April 30. When you are ready, reach out for a quick checklist and local guidance tailored to your situation.
Ready to get started or have a question about your specific property in Brazos County? Connect with Lisa Cadena Craig for friendly, bilingual guidance from a local who knows the process inside and out.
FAQs
Who qualifies for a homestead exemption in Brazos County?
- Owners who occupy the property as their principal residence on January 1 and meet documentation requirements may qualify, and only one homestead can be claimed per person.
What is the deadline to apply for the current tax year?
- Submit your application to the appraisal district by April 30; if you miss it, apply as soon as you qualify and ask the district about late or retroactive options.
Do I need a Texas driver’s license with my home address?
- It is commonly required and speeds approval; if the address does not match, the appraisal district lists acceptable alternative proofs like utility bills or voter registration.
How much money will the homestead exemption save me?
- Savings equal the exemption amount multiplied by your combined local tax rate, and results vary based on your exemptions and the tax rates for your school district, city, and county.
Can I claim a homestead exemption on a second home or rental?
- No, the homestead exemption applies only to your principal residence and you can hold only one at a time.
What additional exemptions exist for seniors, disabled owners, or veterans?
- Over‑65, disabled homeowner, and disabled veteran exemptions can further reduce taxable value and may offer school tax protections, with eligibility and documentation set by state law and the appraisal district.
