How to apply for Texas Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption (Partial, 10%–100% Rating)

Who it's for

Texas exempts part of a disabled veteran's property value from taxation, stepping up with the VA disability rating: $5,000 off assessed value at 10–29%, $7,500 at 30–49%, $10,000 at 50–69%, and $12,000 at 70–100%. A veteran age 65 or older with a rating of at least 10% receives the full $12,000 exemption regardless of tier — the age rule that matters most for seniors. The exemption can apply to any one property the veteran owns, not only the homestead. An unmarried surviving spouse may also qualify. Apply once through the county appraisal district with the VA award letter showing the rating.

What you'll need

• VA disability award letter showing the rating percentage
• Completed Form 50-135 (Disabled Veteran's or Survivor's Exemption) from the county appraisal district

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Confirm your eligibility. You must be a Texas veteran with a VA disability rating of at least 10%, or an unmarried surviving spouse of a qualifying veteran. If you are 65 or older with a rating of at least 10%, you qualify for the full $12,000 exemption regardless of your rating tier.
2. Gather your documents. You will need your VA disability award letter showing your current rating percentage and a completed Form 50-135 (Disabled Veteran's or Survivor's Exemption). Get Form 50-135 from your local county appraisal district.
3. Contact your local county appraisal district. Each county runs its own office. Reach out to confirm any local instructions, deadlines, or additional requirements before you submit.
4. Apply online through your county appraisal district's website. Submit your completed Form 50-135 and your VA award letter through the district's online application portal.
5. Keep copies of everything you submit. Save your VA award letter, your completed form, and any confirmation you receive from the appraisal district for your records.

What to expect: After you submit, the county appraisal district will review your Form 50-135 and VA award letter. Processing times vary, so contact your district directly if you want an estimate. If approved, the exemption reduces your property's assessed value — by $5,000 at a 10–29% rating, $7,500 at 30–49%, $10,000 at 50–69%, or $12,000 at 70–100%. Veterans age 65 or older with at least a 10% rating receive the full $12,000 exemption. The actual dollar savings on your tax bill depend on your local property tax rate; the appraisal district can confirm the exact effect for your property. This is a one-time application — you do not need to reapply each year, though the district may periodically re-verify your information. The exemption can apply to any one property you own, not only a homestead.

Renewals

one-time application; the appraisal district may periodically re-verify