If you own a home in Cypress, a few simple steps can lower your property tax bill every year. With recent statewide changes and local rules in Harris County, it pays to know how the Texas homestead exemption works. In this guide, you’ll learn what you can save today, what may change in 2025, and exactly how to file your exemption with HCAD. Let’s dive in.
How the Texas homestead works
A residence homestead exemption lowers the taxable value of your primary home, which reduces your property taxes. It also activates a homestead “cap” that limits how much your taxable value can increase each year. You apply once, then keep the exemption as long as you still qualify. Learn the basics on the Harris Central Appraisal District’s homeowner page for exemptions and forms.
Cypress taxing units to know
Your home in Cypress is typically taxed by a school district, Harris County, and several special districts. Many addresses are in Cypress‑Fairbanks ISD, which is usually the largest part of a tax bill, and most neighborhoods are also in a MUD or other special district. Because Cypress is largely unincorporated, you often do not have city taxes. For a quick overview of how local taxes stack up in Cypress, review this local resident guide.
- Explore exemption details and local options on HCAD’s homeowner exemptions page: HCAD exemption overview
- See how local taxing units vary by address in Cypress: resident guide overview
Who qualifies in Harris County
To qualify, you must own and occupy the home as your principal residence. Your Texas driver license or state ID should show the same address as the property. Certain situations have exceptions, including heirs, active duty military, and residents of qualified care facilities. HCAD’s FAQ explains eligibility and documentation.
- Check requirements and common questions: HCAD FAQs
How to apply with HCAD
You can apply online or by mail. HCAD’s mobile and online portal lets you submit the Application for Residence Homestead Exemption and upload photos of your Texas ID. If you prefer paper, complete Form 11.13 and mail or deliver it to HCAD.
- Start or finish your application online: HCAD mobile and online exemptions
- Learn what forms and proof you need: HCAD exemption overview
Deadlines and re‑verification
File between January 1 and April 30 to receive the exemption for that tax year. Late filings may be accepted in certain cases under state law, so ask HCAD if you missed the window. Texas now requires appraisal districts to verify homestead exemptions at least every five years, and HCAD will contact you if re‑verification is needed. Keep an eye on your mail so your exemption does not lapse.
- See HCAD’s latest program updates: HCAD updates
What changed since 2023
In November 2023, Texas voters raised the mandatory school-district homestead exemption to 100,000 dollars per home. That larger school exemption now applies statewide. In 2025, lawmakers passed bills to lift the school exemption to 140,000 dollars and increase the additional senior and disabled exemption, but those changes require voter approval on November 4, 2025 before they take effect. Until voters approve a constitutional amendment, the 100,000 dollar school exemption remains in place.
- Read the state’s summary of the 2023 package: Texas Comptroller analysis
- See the 2025 bill signing and next steps: Governor’s announcement
- Follow coverage of the 2025 proposals and timeline: Texas Tribune overview
What you could save
Your savings depend on your home’s value and each taxing unit’s rate. For example, if your home is appraised at 350,000 dollars and you receive the 100,000 dollar school homestead exemption, your school taxable value would drop to 250,000 dollars. Harris County also offers a 20 percent optional homestead exemption for county taxes, which reduces the county taxable value separately. To estimate savings, multiply the exemption amount by the applicable tax rate.
- Confirm local options and examples: HCAD exemption overview
Special exemptions to consider
If you are over 65 or disabled, you may qualify for additional exemptions for school taxes, plus a tax ceiling for school taxes after you qualify. Veterans with a 100 percent service‑connected disability rating may be eligible for a 100 percent homestead exemption under specific rules. Review the documentation needed before you apply.
- Learn about the 100 percent disabled veteran exemption: HCAD veteran exemption Q&A
- Get disability and surviving spouse guidance: Harris County Tax Office info
Selling or inheriting a Cypress home
A homestead exemption is tied to the qualifying owner and does not automatically transfer to a buyer. If you sell, HCAD will remove your exemption, and the new owner should apply for their own after they establish the home as a primary residence. Heir property can qualify under special rules, so contact HCAD for the right documents if you inherit a home.
Quick checklist
- Look up your property and taxing units on HCAD.
- Gather your Texas driver license or ID with the homestead address.
- Apply online through the HCAD portal or file Form 11.13 by mail.
- File January 1 through April 30, and ask about late filing if needed.
- Watch for HCAD’s five‑year re‑verification letters and respond on time.
Ready to map out your next move in Cypress and make the most of your homestead benefits? Reach out to Jordan Weingrad for local guidance on timing, value, and a clear plan whether you are buying, selling, or both.
FAQs
What is a Texas homestead exemption for Cypress homeowners?
- It reduces the taxable value of your primary home and triggers a cap on certain taxable increases, lowering your annual property taxes. See the HCAD exemption overview.
When is the homestead exemption filing window in Harris County?
- File January 1 to April 30 for that tax year, and ask HCAD about late filing options if you miss the deadline. Start here: HCAD mobile and online exemptions.
How much is the current school homestead exemption in Texas?
- The statewide school exemption is 100,000 dollars per qualifying home, approved by voters in 2023. Details are summarized by the Texas Comptroller.
Will the school exemption increase to 140,000 dollars in 2025?
- Lawmakers passed bills to raise it, but the change requires voter approval on November 4, 2025 before it takes effect. See the Governor’s announcement and Texas Tribune coverage.
What documents do I need to apply with HCAD?
- You typically need Form 11.13 and a Texas driver license or state ID that matches the property address, plus extra proof for senior, disabled, or veteran exemptions. Check the HCAD exemption overview.
Does Harris County offer its own optional exemption?
- Yes. Harris County provides an optional 20 percent homestead exemption for county taxes, which is separate from the school exemption. Learn more from the HCAD exemption overview.
What if my ID does not show my homestead address?
- HCAD lists exceptions and alternate proofs for certain situations, such as heirs and active duty military. Start your application and review options in the HCAD portal.
How do disabled veterans claim a 100 percent exemption?
- Veterans with a qualifying 100 percent service‑connected disability may be eligible and must submit VA documentation with their application. See the HCAD veteran exemption Q&A and Harris County Tax Office guidance.
