Own a home in Sachse or planning to soon? If you live in the property as your primary residence, the Texas homestead exemption could lower the portion of your home’s value that gets taxed each year. It is one of the simplest ways to reduce your property tax bill.
We know the forms and deadlines can feel confusing, especially with Sachse spanning both Dallas and Collin counties. In this guide, you’ll learn what the exemption does, who qualifies, how to file in the correct county, key timelines, and what to expect after you apply.
Let’s dive in.
Homestead exemption basics
A residence homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of your home for local taxing units like your school district, city, county, and any special districts. That reduction typically lowers your annual property taxes.
The county appraisal district, often called the CAD, processes your exemption. The CAD sets your appraised value and applies exemptions. The county tax office handles billing and collecting taxes. They are separate offices.
Texas homestead law also includes legal protections from some creditor claims, which is a different legal concept from the property tax exemption. This article covers the property tax exemption only. For legal questions about creditor protections, consult an attorney.
Who qualifies in Texas
To qualify for a residence homestead exemption, you generally must own the home and live in it as your principal residence on January 1 of the tax year. This is the single most important rule to remember.
Common exemption types include:
- General Residence Homestead. The standard exemption for owner-occupants using the property as their principal residence.
- Over 65. An additional exemption plus a school district tax ceiling that limits school taxes from increasing after you qualify.
- Disability. An additional exemption and possible tax ceiling for qualifying disabled persons.
- Disabled Veteran and Surviving Spouse. State-defined programs with partial to full exemptions based on VA disability ratings and specific spouse eligibility.
Documentation is typically required to verify ownership and eligibility. Expect to provide proof of ownership, proof that the property is your principal residence, and additional proofs for age, disability, or veteran status if you are applying for those programs.
Which county handles Sachse homes
Sachse spans both Dallas County and Collin County. You must file with the appraisal district in the county where your property sits. Check your deed or search county property records to confirm the county for your parcel.
- Dallas County properties file with the Dallas Central Appraisal District.
- Collin County properties file with the Collin Central Appraisal District.
For tax bills, payments, or refunds, contact the county tax office for the same county. Appraisals and exemptions live with the CAD. Billing and collections live with the county tax office.
How to file: step by step
Follow this simple workflow to file your homestead exemption:
Confirm your county. Verify whether your Sachse home is in Dallas County or Collin County.
Get the application. Download or request the Residence Homestead Exemption form from your county’s CAD.
Gather documents. Typical items include:
- Proof of ownership, such as a deed or closing statement.
- Proof of principal residence, such as a Texas driver’s license or state ID showing the property address. You may also be asked for voter or vehicle registration or similar local evidence.
- Proof of age for an over 65 application or agency documentation for disability or VA-related qualifications.
Complete and submit. Follow your CAD’s instructions to submit by online portal if offered, by mail, or in person. There is no fee to apply.
Keep records. Save copies of the application, supporting documents, and proof of delivery.
Watch for a response. The CAD will notify you if your exemption is granted, denied, or if they need more information.
Key dates and timelines
- January 1 rule. You must own and occupy the home as your principal residence on January 1 of the tax year to qualify for that year’s exemption.
- When to file. File as soon as you qualify. Many homeowners aim to file by late spring to ensure timely processing, often by April 30.
- Appraisal notices. CADs post or mail appraisal notices in spring. Deadlines for value protests vary by CAD and are often in mid May.
If you are filing late, ask your CAD and county tax office how they handle mid year approvals and potential refunds or credits. Procedures can vary by county.
Bought your home recently
If you did not own and occupy the property on January 1, you usually cannot receive the exemption for that tax year. You would apply the next year after you meet the January 1 rule.
If you move within the same county and already had an over 65 or disability exemption, some counties offer transfer procedures. Ask your CAD how to keep that benefit active and whether you need to reapply.
Over 65, disability, and veteran benefits
Texas offers additional exemptions and protections beyond the general homestead. If you qualify, these can provide meaningful savings and stability.
- Over 65. Homeowners age 65 or older may qualify for an additional exemption and a school district tax ceiling that limits future increases on school taxes.
- Disability. Qualifying disabled persons may receive an additional exemption and tax ceiling similar to the over 65 benefit.
- Disabled Veteran. Depending on the VA disability rating, disabled veteran exemptions can range from partial reductions to a total exemption. Surviving spouses in certain categories may qualify as well.
These programs require additional documentation. Review the instructions on your county’s form to ensure you submit the right proofs with your application.
What to expect after you apply
Once your application is submitted, the CAD reviews your documents and either approves, denies, or requests more information. If granted, your exemption is applied to the appraisal roll for that tax year.
If approval comes after taxes are billed, contact both your CAD and your county tax office to learn how adjustments, credits, or refunds are handled. Each county may follow a different process and timeline.
If your application is denied, you should receive instructions from the CAD on what to do next. Formal protests and appeals are handled through the appraisal review board, with local deadlines set by the CAD.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing with the wrong county. Always file with the CAD where your property is located.
- Missing the January 1 rule. If you did not own and occupy on January 1, plan to apply the following year.
- Incomplete documents. Make sure your proof of ownership and Texas ID show the correct property information and address. Include documents for any special exemption you are claiming.
- Ignoring CAD notices. Keep all CAD letters and emails. Respond promptly to requests for information.
- Assuming automatic refunds. Late approvals may not trigger immediate refunds. Ask the CAD and county tax office how adjustments are handled.
Who to contact in Sachse
- Appraisals and exemptions. Contact your county appraisal district. For Sachse, this is either the Dallas Central Appraisal District or the Collin Central Appraisal District, depending on where your property sits.
- Bills and payments. Contact the Dallas County Tax Office or the Collin County Tax Office for questions about payment plans, due dates, and refunds.
- City questions. For city specific programs or general inquiries about local tax distribution, connect with the City of Sachse finance department.
Always verify the most current forms, filing procedures, and deadlines directly with your county appraisal district. For personal legal or tax advice, speak with an attorney or tax professional.
Ready to file or have questions?
If you need help confirming your county, timing your application, or understanding how exemptions may affect your move, we are here to guide you. Our team serves families across Sachse, Rowlett, Rockwall, Wylie, and the surrounding suburbs every day. We can connect you with the right county offices, walk you through forms, and coordinate your next steps if you are buying or selling this year.
Reach out to The Dunnican Team at Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtors for local guidance and caring, step by step support.
The Dunnican Team at Coldwell Banker Apex, Realtors
FAQs
Do new Texas homeowners automatically get a homestead exemption?
- No. You need to apply with your county appraisal district once you own and occupy the home as your principal residence on January 1 of the tax year.
If I buy a Sachse home after January 1, when can I get the exemption?
- You typically apply the next year after you meet the January 1 ownership and occupancy requirement for your principal residence.
What documents do I need to apply in Dallas or Collin County?
- Expect to provide proof of ownership and proof of principal residence, such as a Texas driver’s license or state ID with the property address. Extra documents are required for over 65, disability, or veteran exemptions.
How much money will the exemption save me?
- Savings vary by taxing unit and your specific situation. The exemption reduces taxable value, which usually lowers your total tax bill. Ask your CAD how the exemption would apply to your parcel.
How do over 65 and disabled veteran exemptions work?
- Over 65 and disability exemptions add to the general homestead and can include a school district tax ceiling. Disabled veteran benefits are based on VA ratings and can be significant. Each requires specific documentation.
Can I file online, or do I need to mail the application?
- Submission options vary by county. Some CADs offer online portals, while all accept mail and in person filings. Check your CAD’s instructions for current options.
What happens if my homestead application is denied?
- The CAD will explain the reason and how to respond. You may provide additional documents or pursue a formal protest with the appraisal review board before local deadlines.
If I move, how do I transfer or reapply my exemption?
- For a new primary residence, file a new application with the CAD for that property’s county. Over 65 and disability benefits may have transfer options within the same county. Ask your CAD for details.
Does the homestead exemption protect my home from creditor claims?
- The property tax homestead exemption is separate from Texas legal homestead protections. For legal impact and creditor questions, consult an attorney.
Who do I contact for Sachse homestead questions?
- Contact your county appraisal district for exemptions and your county tax office for billing and refunds. Sachse homeowners will use Dallas or Collin County offices based on the property’s location.
