Texas offers a range of property tax exemptions to help support disabled veterans and their families. The Board of Directors for Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No. 24 (FBCMUD 24) would like to provide information and resources for disabled veterans to better understand and utilize these exemptions.
Who qualifies for disabled veteran tax exemptions?
To receive a disabled veteran exemption, you must either
- Be a veteran who was disabled while serving with the U.S. Armed Forces
- Be the surviving spouse or child (under age 18 and unmarried) of a disabled veteran or of a member of the armed forces who was killed while on active duty.
- You must be a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who is classified as disabled by the Veteran's Administration or the Armed Services branch in which you served and have a service-connected disability.
- The disabled veteran must be a Texas resident and must choose one property to receive the exemption.
A Veteran who qualifies for more than one property exemption is only eligible for one exemption but may choose the greatest exemption they qualify for. The exemption amount that a qualified disabled veteran receives depends on the veteran's disability rating from the branch of the armed service.
Disability Exemption Amounts:
- $5,000 for 10% - 29% disability rating.
- $7,500 for 30% - 49% disability rating.
- $10,000 for 50% - 69% disability rating.
- $12,000 for 70% - 99% disability rating.
Veterans with a disability rating of 100 % are eligible for a complete exemption from property taxes on their residence. This exemption also extends to the surviving and unmarried spouse if the veteran passes away.
Disabled Veterans who are 65 years or older can receive a property tax exemption of $12,000 if they meet one of the following requirements:
- A disability rating of at least 10%.
- Completely blind in one or both eyes.
- Have lost the use of one or more limbs.
These guidelines are set forth by the State Comptroller but are administered by each County Appraisal District. Administration of rules can vary considerably by county.
Please contact your local Appraisal District to verify your tax exemption status.
How to apply for tax exemptions:
You must submit the completed application and supporting documents to the appraisal district between Jan. 1 and April 30 of the tax year for which you request the exemption.
Applicants must provide the following documentation supporting this exemption request:
- Attach a copy of the property owner’s driver’s license or state-issued personal identification certificate with an address matching the residence homestead.
- Documentation indicating the percentage of disability certified by the Veterans Administration or its successor, or the branch of the armed services in which the veteran served.
- Required form completed and notarized. The required form depends on your disability rating. You can find the forms and their requirements here.
After submitting the required documents, you will receive a confirmation from the Appraisal District. They may contact you for additional information or clarification. Once your application is approved, check your property tax bill to ensure the exemption has been applied. If there are any discrepancies, contact your Appraisal District for clarification.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve. For any assistance, don’t hesitate to contact local veterans’ organizations or your county Appraisal office. Your service has earned you these benefits- make sure you claim them!
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