Buying a home in Nolanville or anywhere in Bell County? Do not leave property tax savings on the table. A Texas homestead exemption can lower the taxable value of your primary residence, which reduces your annual property tax bill. If you are a new or soon-to-be homeowner, a little timing and paperwork go a long way. In this guide, you will learn who qualifies, when to file, what to submit, and how to apply with the Bell County Appraisal District. Let’s dive in.
Homestead exemption basics
A homestead exemption lowers the taxable value of your principal residence. Lower taxable value usually means lower property taxes. In Bell County, the Bell County Appraisal District (BCAD) reviews and approves applications, then local taxing units apply the exemption on your bill.
Texas sets the eligibility rules and exemption types. Local taxing units, like school districts and cities, may also adopt their own partial exemptions. State guidance on all homestead categories is outlined by the Texas Comptroller. You can review the state rules on the Comptroller’s homestead exemptions page for details and definitions.
Who qualifies in Bell County
To receive a homestead exemption for a given tax year, you must:
- Own the property and use it as your principal residence on January 1 of that tax year.
- Claim the exemption on only one property at a time. Your homestead is your one primary home.
Temporary absences for work, school, medical care, or military service usually do not disqualify you if the home remains your principal residence and you intend to return.
Common exemption types
General residence homestead
This is the standard exemption for owner-occupants. It reduces taxable value for certain taxing units. School districts are the most common place you will see the reduction.
Over-65 (senior) exemption
If you are 65 or older, you may qualify for an additional exemption amount. It can also create a tax ceiling for school district taxes, which limits future increases for your residence.
Disability exemption
If you have a qualifying disability, you may receive an exemption similar to the over-65 benefit. This can also provide a school district tax ceiling when the disability is permanent.
Disabled veteran and surviving spouse
Disabled veterans and eligible surviving spouses can receive substantial exemptions. The amount depends on the VA disability rating and specific provisions. You will need VA documentation to verify your rating.
Local option partial exemptions
Some cities, counties, and special districts adopt their own partial exemptions. If a taxing unit authorizes one, BCAD will apply it to your property once your homestead is approved.
For an overview of each category and the legal requirements, review the Texas Comptroller’s guidance on homestead and related exemptions.
How to apply with BCAD
Follow these steps if your home is in Nolanville or anywhere in Bell County:
Confirm eligibility
- You must own and occupy the home as your principal residence on January 1 of the year you are applying for.
Get the application
- Obtain the homestead exemption application from the Bell County Appraisal District. You can request it by mail or in person, and many districts also provide a printable form or online option. BCAD is the local office that processes your application.
Complete the form
- Provide owner name(s), the property description or parcel number, and certify that the address is your principal residence. If applying for over-65, include your birthdate.
Attach supporting documents
- See the checklist below. Most districts require your Texas driver’s license or state ID to show the same address as the property.
Submit by the deadline
- The standard filing deadline is April 30 of the tax year. If you miss it, contact BCAD. Late filings can sometimes still be approved depending on your ownership and occupancy dates.
Watch for confirmation
- BCAD will notify you of approval or denial. Once approved, your exemption will appear on your appraisal record and the taxable values used by your taxing units.
Key dates and timing
- January 1: You must own and occupy the home on this date to qualify for that tax year.
- April 30: Standard deadline to file homestead exemption applications and many special exemptions.
- Processing time: Allow several weeks for BCAD to process. Check your next appraisal notice or tax statement to confirm the exemption appears.
If you bought after January 1, you will typically be eligible starting the following tax year.
What documents to gather
Use this quick checklist before you apply. Requirements can vary, so confirm with BCAD.
- Proof of ownership: Recorded deed or closing statement.
- Proof of residency: Texas driver’s license or state ID with the property address. The Texas Department of Public Safety requires you to update your license address within 30 days of moving. You can find driver’s license information on the Texas DPS website.
- For over-65: Proof of age. Your date of birth on the application or ID is often sufficient.
- For disability exemptions: Documentation of qualifying disability as defined by the Comptroller.
- For disabled veteran exemptions: VA award letter or documentation showing your disability rating.
Nolanville home bought after January 1?
If you purchased your Bell County home after January 1, you usually cannot receive a homestead exemption for the current year unless you owned and occupied the same property on January 1. You would generally become eligible on January 1 of the next year. File early in that next year to avoid missing the April 30 deadline.
After approval: what to expect
- Automatic continuation: Once approved, your homestead exemption generally stays in place as long as the home remains your principal residence and ownership does not change. There is usually no annual reapplication for the basic homestead.
- Notify BCAD of changes: If you sell, move, or your eligibility changes, let BCAD know.
- Separate from value protests: Homestead exemptions and value protests are different processes. If you believe your appraised value is too high, you can still file a protest within the BCAD protest deadlines.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to update your ID: Your Texas driver’s license or state ID should reflect the homestead address. Visit the Texas DPS site for ID guidance.
- Assuming someone else filed: In Texas, you are responsible for filing unless a third party does it for you.
- Missing the April 30 deadline: Put it on your calendar soon after closing so you do not forget.
- Claiming more than one homestead: Only your principal residence qualifies.
Helpful resources
- Texas Comptroller homestead exemptions overview: See official definitions, eligibility, and exemptions for seniors, persons with disabilities, and disabled veterans on the Comptroller’s homestead exemptions page.
- Texas Department of Public Safety: Review driver’s license address requirements and ID updates at the Texas DPS website.
- Bell County Appraisal District: Contact BCAD for the current application form, submission options, and processing timelines.
- Bell County Tax Office: For tax billing and payment questions after your exemption is applied.
Ready for local help?
If you are planning a move to Nolanville or just closed on a Bell County home, getting your homestead handled early can save you money and stress. For clear timelines and a smooth process from contract to closing, connect with a local expert who knows the steps and the right offices to call. Reach out to Carlee Lopez for guidance on your next move and to set up your homeownership game plan.
FAQs
What is a Texas homestead exemption and how does it lower my Bell County taxes?
- It reduces the taxable value of your principal residence, which lowers the property taxes calculated by your local taxing units.
When is the homestead application deadline for Bell County homeowners?
- The standard deadline to file your homestead application is April 30 of the tax year.
Can I get the Nolanville homestead exemption if I bought my home after January 1?
- Usually no for the current year. You are generally eligible starting the next tax year if you own and occupy the home on January 1.
What documents do I need to apply for a Bell County homestead exemption?
- Proof of ownership, Texas ID with the property address, and any special documentation such as proof of age, disability, or VA disability rating.
Do seniors in Bell County receive additional homestead benefits?
- Yes. The over-65 exemption adds savings and can set a school district tax ceiling that limits future increases on your residence.
How do disabled veterans in Bell County qualify for homestead exemptions?
- You need to meet the state’s disabled veteran criteria and provide VA documentation of your disability rating.
Do I need to reapply for my Bell County homestead exemption every year?
- No. The basic homestead generally continues automatically as long as the property remains your principal residence and ownership does not change.
