What Property Tax Measures Are Available to Veterans
In honor of National Military Appreciation Month this May, Johnson & Starr is highlighting valuable property tax benefits available to veterans. Texas provides a range of special benefits for service members, veterans, and their families, including property tax relief options to alleviate financial strain. Whether you’re currently serving, have served in the past, or are a military family member, it’s crucial to take advantage of these benefits. This blog seeks to provide a better understanding of the key aspects of property tax measures and strategies to reduce your property tax burden.
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemptions
Texas Property Tax Exemption stands as a significant relief measure for Texas Veterans, offering substantial support. Disabled Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or more, may qualify, provided they can furnish proof of Texas Residency. The exemption amount is determined by the disability rating from the U.S. Veterans’ Administration. See below for a breakdown of disability ratings, each dictating the extent of Property Tax Exemption available to veterans.
According to Texas Comptroller, veterans with a disability rating of:
- 100% are exempt from all property taxes.
- 70 to 99% receive a $12,000 property tax exemption.
- 50 to 69% receive a $10,000 property tax exemption.
- 30 to 49% receive a $7,500 property tax exemption.
- 10 to 29% receive a $5,000 property tax exemption.
Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans over the Age of 65
If a disabled veteran is 65 years or older, they may be eligible for a property tax exemption of $12,000. To qualify, veterans must have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%, be blind in one or both eyes or have lost the use of one or more limbs. Meeting any of these three criteria may make a veteran eligible for the exemption.
Property Tax Loans for Surviving Spouses of Veterans
Surviving spouses or children of disabled veterans or armed forces members killed while on active duty may also qualify for an exemption. The spouse of a disabled Veteran remains eligible as long as they maintain Texas residency and refrain from remarriage. Similarly, a spouse of an armed forces member deceased during active duty may qualify, provided they sustain Texas residency, provide a Veterans Administration letter confirming the active duty death, and submit a copy of the marriage license.
If you are looking to apply for this type of exemption, here’s the online application for disabled veteran/surviving spouse exemption.
For more Texas veteran homeowner tips, read our blog here: https://johnsonandstarr.com/5-home-buying-tips-for-texas-veterans/
Johnson & Starr Can Help!
If you are a veteran and find yourself struggling with overdue property taxes despite owning a home, Johnson & Starr is ready to help! We take pride in protecting veteran homeownership through our fair, flexible, and transparent loan options. Contact us today or give us a call at 888-508-3894 and let one of our licensed loan officers guide you through any of your questions.