Texas Property Tax Over 65: Exemption & Tax Ceiling Calculator

What Texas homeowners get at 65

$200,000 school exemption. The $140,000 general homestead exemption plus a $60,000 age 65 exemption, approved by voters in November 2025 and retroactive to 2025.
School tax ceiling. Your school taxes on the home are capped at the amount for the year you qualify. They can drop, but won't rise unless you make major improvements.
Local options. Counties, cities and junior college districts may add their own 65+ exemptions or ceilings. Check your tax statement.
Tax deferral. Homeowners 65+ can defer property taxes on their home while they live there; the taxes stay a lien on the home.

How to apply

File Form 50-114 (Residence Homestead Exemption Application) with your county appraisal district. You can apply in the year you turn 65, and you don't have to wait for January 1. Bring a Texas driver's license or ID showing the home's address.

Moving after 65

Your ceiling doesn't follow you as a dollar amount. Your appraisal district works out the percentage of school taxes you paid with the ceiling, and that percentage is applied to the new home. Ask for a tax ceiling certificate when you apply on the new home.

Surviving spouses

A surviving spouse who is 55 or older when the 65+ homeowner dies can generally keep the exemption and ceiling on the same home. Confirm with your appraisal district.

Property tax is one piece

The free Retirement Check shows how your housing costs, taxes and income fit together, and how long your savings may last.

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Common questions

At what age do you stop paying school taxes in Texas?

You don't stop entirely, but at 65 you get an extra $60,000 school exemption ($200,000 total) and your school taxes are capped at that year's amount.

Is the Texas over-65 exemption automatic?

No. You apply with your county appraisal district using Form 50-114. Many districts accept the application online.

Does the over-65 tax freeze transfer to a new home in Texas?

Yes, as a percentage. The share of school taxes you paid under the ceiling applies to the new home. Ask your appraisal district for a tax ceiling certificate.

How much is the Texas senior property tax exemption in 2026?

For school taxes, $200,000 total: $140,000 for every homeowner plus $60,000 for 65 and older or disabled. Other local exemptions vary by county and city.

Texas property tax over 65: how much will you save?