Disability Homestead Exemption: Information and Requirements
Who is a disabled person for the purposes of this exemption?
T
he Texas Property Tax Code provides that you are entitled to the exemption if you meet the Social Security
Administration's test for disability. In simplest terms:
1) You must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment;
2)
T
he impairment must prevent you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity; and
3)
T
he impairment must be expected to last for at least 12 continuous months or to result in death.
Alternatively, if you are over the age of 55 and due to blindness are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity
in which you previously engaged with some regularity and over a substantial period of time.
Do I have to be receiving disability benefits to qualify?
Y
ou do not have to be receiving disability benefits, but you must meet the definition of disabled given above. If you
receive disability benefits under the Federal Old Age, Survivors, and Disability insurance Program through the
Social Security Administration you will automatically qualify. Disability benefits from any other program do not
automatically qualify you for this exemption
How do I claim the exemption?
T
o claim the exemption, you must file an application with the appraisal district. The application must include
documentation of your disability. The application form is entitled "Application for Residential Homestead
Exemption." This form can be obtained from our website or from the Information & Assistance Division of the Harris
County Appraisal District .In it, you should complete all applicable information. Be especially certain to mark the box that
recognizes your claim for the disability exemption. The most common reason for denial of this exemption is failure to
provide adequate documentation.
W
hat kind of documents should I include?
The best form of documentation, if you are receiving Social Security Disability, is a copy of your disability determination
letter issued by the Social Security Administration. If you are not receiving Social Security Disability, then have your
physician complete and return HCAD's Verification of Disability Form or attach information from a recognized retirement
system verifying your permanent disability. It is very important that if you are submitting the Verification of
Disability form, your physician must mail it to the appraisal district. This form will not be accepted if simply
attached to your application.
Where do I file my application?
O
nce you have completed the application and secured appropriate documentation, you need to file your application with
the chief appraiser. You may mail or file your request directly with the appraisal district at the address given on this
form. Action on your application usually will occur within four to six weeks from the date it is received. In the event the
Appraisal district disagrees with your request, you will be notified and offered an opportunity to protest this decision.
For any questions or additional assistance, you are encouraged to call a HCAD representative at (713) 957-7800
between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
