Several property tax exemptions are available to San Antonio homeowners. The most common are the homestead exemption, over-65 exemption, disabled person exemption, veteran and surviving spouse exemptions, and agricultural or timber exemptions. Each exemption reduces your taxable value and lowers your tax bill. You must apply with the Bexar County Appraisal District and meet specific eligibility requirements.
Homestead Exemption
The homestead exemption is available to any homeowner who lives in their home as their primary residence. It exempts a portion of your home's value from school district taxes. In Texas, the standard homestead exemption for school taxes is $40,000 for 2024 and is set to increase to $100,000 for 2025 under recent legislation. You must apply through BCAD and provide proof of ownership and occupancy.
Over-65 Exemption
Homeowners aged 65 or older qualify for an additional exemption on top of the standard homestead exemption. The over-65 exemption reduces school district taxes further and freezes your school tax amount at the year you qualify. You cannot owe more school tax in future years even if your home's value increases. Some counties, taxing districts, and cities offer additional over-65 exemptions. Apply through BCAD with proof of age.
Disabled Person Exemption
Homeowners who qualify for disability benefits under certain federal programs may receive an exemption similar to the over-65 exemption. The disabled exemption also freezes school district taxes at the year you qualify. You cannot claim both the over-65 and disabled exemption simultaneously. You need documentation from the Social Security Administration or other qualifying agency.
Veteran Exemptions
Texas offers several exemptions for veterans. Disabled veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 10 percent qualify for an exemption ranging from $5,000 to $12,000 of their home's appraised value. Veterans with a 100 percent disability rating receive a full exemption on their home's value. Surviving spouses of disabled veterans and military members killed in action also qualify for exemptions. File documentation from the VA with BCAD.
Agricultural and Timber Exemptions
If your property qualifies as agricultural or timber land, it may be appraised based on its agricultural value rather than market value. This can result in significantly lower taxes. You must demonstrate that the land is used for farming, ranching, beekeeping, or timber production. Certain minimum acreage requirements apply. Apply through BCAD with documentation of agricultural use.
Eligibility and Filing
Most exemptions require you to file an application with Bexar County Appraisal District. Homestead exemptions have a deadline of April 30 of the tax year. Over-65 and disabled exemptions can be filed anytime, but the freeze takes effect when you apply. You must file supporting documentation including proof of ownership, residency, and eligibility. If you are denied, you can appeal through the BCAD protest process.