Property Tax Protest Tips for Retirees and Seniors in Texas

If you’re a Texas homeowner over 65, you may feel the squeeze of rising property values and increasing tax bills. The good news? Texas offers several property tax benefits designed specifically for seniors, and there are successful protest strategies that can help keep your housing costs in check during retirement.

Here are practical tips and insights to help retirees and seniors maximize their property tax rights in Texas.

What Is the Over-65 Homestead Exemption?

In Texas, homeowners 65 or older can receive an extra property tax break on their primary residence. This exemption lowers your school district taxable value by at least $10,000 on top of the standard $40,000 homestead exemption, with possible additional savings from local taxing entities. Once approved, it stays in place as long as the home remains your primary residence.

Who Qualifies for the Over-65 Homestead Exemption?

To qualify for the Over-65 Homestead Exemption in Texas, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be 65 or older (you become eligible as of your 65th birthday).
• Own the property and occupy it as your primary residence.
• Provide proof of age, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID that matches the property address.

You must apply through your local appraisal district, and the exemption remains as long as you live in the home.

Texas law allows homeowners 65 or older to apply for an additional Over-65 Homestead Exemption on their primary residence. This exemption:

• Reduces your school district taxable value by at least $10,000 (in addition to the standard $40,000 homestead exemption).
• May include additional exemptions from cities, counties, or other taxing entities that offer optional senior discounts.

Once you qualify, you only need to apply once. Your exemption stays in place as long as the property remains your primary residence.

Take Advantage of the Property Tax Ceiling

One of the most valuable protections for seniors is the tax ceiling or tax freeze. When you turn 65 and receive the Over-65 Homestead Exemption, your school district taxes are frozen, meaning they cannot increase unless you make significant improvements to your home.

Some cities, counties, and special districts offer similar tax ceilings. Check with your local appraisal district to see which entities in your area participate.

Protest Your Appraisal Anyway

Even with exemptions and a tax ceiling, protesting your property tax appraisal still makes sense if you believe your home is overvalued. Why?

• You still pay taxes to other entities (like the county or hospital district) that may not be subject to the freeze.
• Lowering your appraised value now protects you if the tax ceiling is lifted (for example, if you sell and buy another home).
• Your heirs may benefit from a lower appraisal if the property is passed down.

Gather Senior-Friendly Evidence

When preparing your protest, focus on clear, compelling documentation:

• Photos of your home’s condition (particularly if it’s older or needs repairs)
• Recent sales of similar homes in your area
• A list of deferred maintenance or age-related wear and tear
• Any accessibility modifications that may reduce market value

You don’t need to be a real estate expert to build a solid case, but organizing your evidence clearly can make a big difference.

Know Your Protest Options

You can protest your appraisal either online or in person. Many Texas counties offer informal hearings, where you can meet one-on-one with an appraiser to try and reach an agreement before going to the full Appraisal Review Board (ARB).

As a senior, you can also designate someone to represent you at the hearing. Whether it’s a family member or a professional firm like Texas Tax Protest, having someone advocate on your behalf can make the process less stressful.

Beware of Misconceptions

Many seniors assume they don’t need to protest their taxes once exemptions are in place. But remember:

• Exemptions reduce your taxable value, not your appraised value.
• Your appraisal still affects taxes from other jurisdictions.
• Tax ceilings don’t apply to all entities or future homeowners.

Keeping your valuation accurate benefits you now and in the future.

Let the Professionals Help

Texas Tax Protest has helped homeowners save over $85 million by challenging inflated property valuations. Our team understands the concerns of retirees and seniors, and we use big-data analysis and local market insights to build the strongest possible protest.

Plus, with real Texas-based support (no offshore call centers), you get responsive service and peace of mind.

Retired Doesn’t Mean Powerless

Rising property taxes don’t have to be an inevitable part of retirement. With the right exemptions and a strategic protest, you can keep your housing costs manageable and enjoy your home for years to come.

If you’re over 65 and wondering if a protest is worth it, let Texas Tax Protest guide the way. Contact us to learn how we can help protect your savings.