If you own a home in Westover Hills, one simple step can protect your budget and reduce your tax bill. A Texas residence homestead exemption lowers the taxable value of your primary home and unlocks a 10 percent cap on certain annual increases. If you are new to Tarrant County or have never filed, you may be leaving money on the table.
This guide walks you through what the homestead exemption does, how to apply with the Tarrant Appraisal District, how the 10 percent homestead cap works, and how to keep your exemption active year after year. You will also find key dates and links to official resources. Let’s dive in.
Homestead basics for Westover Hills
A residence homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence. That means the taxing units calculate taxes on a lower number, which can translate into savings each year.
- The general residence homestead exemption lowers taxable value for your owner‑occupied home.
- Special exemptions may be available if you are 65 or older, have a qualifying disability, or are a disabled veteran.
- With a homestead exemption in place, your property also qualifies for the statewide homestead appraisal cap for school district taxes.
For local administration, the Tarrant Appraisal District, or TAD, manages exemption filings and appraised values. You can review forms and guidance at the Tarrant Appraisal District website.
What the 10 percent cap does
The homestead cap limits how much your appraised value used for school district taxes can rise each year. If your homestead was appraised at a certain value last year, the value used to calculate school taxes generally cannot increase by more than 10 percent this year, even if market value rose more.
- The cap applies only to school district taxes.
- City, county, and special district taxes are not generally capped by this rule.
- You must have a valid residence homestead exemption for the cap to apply.
For statewide guidance on the homestead exemption and the appraisal cap, review the Texas Comptroller’s property tax resources.
Who should apply and when
You should apply if you own and occupy the property in Westover Hills as your primary residence.
- New owners should apply after closing, even if you purchase mid‑year.
- File by the April 30 deadline to receive the exemption for that tax year. If you miss the deadline, file as soon as possible to secure future benefits. Always check TAD for any updates to timing.
How to apply with TAD
Step‑by‑step filing
- Gather proof of ownership. A copy of your deed or closing statement works.
- Gather proof of residency. A Texas driver’s license or state ID that shows the property address is typical. Other documents may be acceptable per TAD.
- Complete TAD’s residence homestead exemption application. There are additional forms for over‑65, disabled, disabled veteran, and surviving spouse exemptions.
- Submit your application to TAD. You can mail or deliver in person, and TAD also offers online options where available. Start at the Tarrant Appraisal District website for current forms and e‑services.
- Keep copies of everything you submit, including any confirmation number.
Common documentation
- Proof of ownership, such as a deed or closing disclosure.
- Proof of primary residence, such as a Texas driver’s license or state ID with the matching address.
- For special exemptions, include required proof of age, disability status, or a VA award letter for disabled veteran exemptions.
For statewide definitions and eligibility, see the Texas Comptroller’s homestead guidance.
Verify approval and keep it current
How to confirm your exemption
- Watch for your spring Notice of Appraised Value from TAD. It lists the appraised value and any exemptions applied.
- Use TAD’s online property search or e‑services to view your property record and see active exemptions.
- Later in the year, your property tax statement from the Tarrant County tax office will reflect taxable value after exemptions.
How to maintain eligibility
You do not refile the general homestead exemption each year. It remains in place until something important changes. Notify TAD if any of the following occur:
- You move and the property is no longer your primary residence.
- Ownership changes, including a sale or transfer.
- You reach age 65 or have a qualifying disability and want to add a special exemption.
Keep your Texas driver’s license or state ID updated with your homestead address. Each spring, review your Notice of Appraised Value to confirm your exemptions are accurate.
Special exemptions to consider
You may qualify for additional property tax relief beyond the general homestead exemption:
- Over‑65 and disability exemptions can provide higher exemption amounts and may qualify you for a school tax ceiling.
- Disabled veteran exemptions are based on your VA disability rating and can be significant.
- Certain surviving spouses may be eligible to continue exemptions under specific conditions.
For details and required proof, consult the Texas Comptroller’s property tax resources and check the latest forms and instructions at the TAD website.
How the cap interacts with ownership changes
If you sell your homestead or move out, the 10 percent cap protection tied to your exemption does not carry over to a new owner. The new owner must file a homestead application and will become eligible for cap protection going forward.
Remember, the cap is separate from exemption amounts that subtract dollars from taxable value. With a valid homestead, you can benefit from both the exemption and the cap on school taxes.
Online tools and local contacts
- Tarrant Appraisal District: file exemptions, check your property record, and review notices. Start at the Tarrant Appraisal District website.
- Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts: statewide explanations of homestead exemptions and the 10 percent cap. Visit the property tax guidance page.
- Tarrant County Tax Office: view and pay tax bills, and see taxable values after exemptions. Contact the tax office with billing or payment questions.
Note: Westover Hills is a small town within Tarrant County. Municipal tax questions and bills are coordinated through the appraisal district and county tax office.
Quick checklist for buyers and owners
After you buy in Westover Hills
- Within a few weeks of closing, submit your homestead application to TAD.
- Update your Texas driver’s license or state ID and voter registration to your new address.
- Save your closing statement and any TAD confirmations in your records.
For current owners
- Each spring, review the Notice of Appraised Value and confirm your exemptions.
- If you turn 65 or become eligible for a disability or disabled veteran exemption, apply with the required documentation.
- If you move or convert the home to a rental, notify TAD promptly.
Wrap‑up
A homestead exemption is one of the most effective ways to manage your property tax burden in Westover Hills. File once, keep your records handy, and review your annual notice to make sure everything is correct. With your exemption in place, you benefit from both a reduced taxable value and important protection for school district taxes.
If you would like a discreet, step‑by‑step review of your options before or after a move, request a private consultation with The Raleigh Green Real Estate Group. Our team can coordinate the timing and paperwork alongside your broader real estate plans in West Fort Worth.
FAQs
What is a Texas residence homestead exemption for Westover Hills?
- It is a property tax benefit for your primary residence that reduces taxable value and can qualify your home for the 10 percent appraisal cap on school district taxes.
What is the filing deadline with the Tarrant Appraisal District?
- File by April 30 to receive the exemption for that tax year. If you miss it, file as soon as possible to secure future benefits.
Does the 10 percent cap cover all my Westover Hills taxes?
- No. The cap generally applies only to school district taxes. City, county, and special district taxes are not typically capped by this rule.
How do I confirm my homestead exemption was applied in Tarrant County?
- Check your spring Notice of Appraised Value and your property record through TAD’s online tools, then review your year‑end tax statement from the county tax office.
Do I need to reapply for my homestead exemption each year?
- No. Once granted, your general homestead exemption remains in place until ownership or occupancy changes. Notify TAD if your status changes.
