Property tax exemptions reduce your taxable assessed value — which directly reduces your tax bill. Many homeowners are eligible for exemptions they have never applied for. This guide covers every major exemption type available in the United States.
Homestead Exemption
The homestead exemption is the most widely available property tax exemption. It reduces the assessed value of your primary residence by a fixed dollar amount or percentage. Most states offer it; a few do not. You must apply — it is not automatic in most states.
| State | Homestead Exemption Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | $140,000 off school district value | Raised by Nov 2025 Prop 13; assessed-value increases capped at 10%/yr; other jurisdictions may offer an optional exemption of up to 20% of value |
| Florida | Up to $50,000 off assessed value | First $25,000 applies to all taxes; second $25,000 applies to non-school taxes |
| California | $7,000 off assessed value | Relatively small; Prop 13 provides larger benefit |
| Georgia | Varies by county | State exemption + county/school exemptions available |
| Illinois | $10,000 off assessed value (Cook County) | General homestead exemption |
| New York | Varies by municipality | STAR program provides school tax relief |
Senior Citizen / Over-65 Exemption
Most states offer additional exemptions for homeowners age 65 and older. These range from modest additional reductions to complete tax freezes. In Texas, homeowners over 65 receive an additional $60,000 school district exemption (raised from $10,000 by Nov 2025 Prop 11) and their school district taxes are frozen at the level when they turned 65 (or when they applied).
Veteran and Disability Exemptions
Veterans with service-connected disabilities are eligible for significant property tax exemptions in most states. The benefit typically scales with the disability rating. In Texas, veterans with a 100% disability rating pay zero property taxes. In Florida, veterans with a 10%+ service-connected disability receive an additional $5,000 exemption.
Agricultural Use Exemption
Land used for agricultural purposes — farming, ranching, timber, wildlife management — can be assessed at its agricultural use value rather than market value in most states. This can reduce the assessed value by 50–90% for rural land near urban areas. Application requirements vary by state.
Solar and Green Energy Exemptions
Many states exclude the added value of solar panels and other renewable energy systems from the property's assessed value. This means installing solar panels does not increase your property tax bill in these states. Check your state's exemption database for details.
Historic Property Exemptions
Properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places or designated as local historic landmarks may qualify for special assessment treatment or exemptions in many states. The benefit varies widely — from modest reductions to complete freezes.
How to Apply for Exemptions
- Check the Property Tax Edge Exemptions Database for your state's available exemptions.
- Verify you meet the eligibility requirements (age, residency, disability rating, etc.).
- Download the application form from your county assessor's website.
- Gather required documentation (proof of age, disability rating, deed, etc.).
- Submit the application by the deadline — most states have an annual deadline.
- Verify the exemption appears on your next tax bill.
Exemptions are not retroactive in most states. If you missed the application deadline, you will need to wait until next year. Some states allow late applications with a penalty.