Property Tax Appeal:
Do it Yourself. Do it Right.

Last updated on

Texas Homestead Exemption (Form 50-114): How to Answer the Deed Owner Question

By Harsha N Hegde

⏰ Reminder: Texas homestead exemption applications are accepted from January 1 – April 30 each year. Don’t miss the deadline!

What Does “Is the applicant identified on deed or other recorded instrument?” Mean?

This is simply asking whether your name appears on the official property records as an owner. If you are the sole owner or partial owner of the property, your name will be listed on the sale deed.
In this case:

  • Check “Yes” for this question.
  • Provide the deed number.
  • You can find the deed number in your closing papers or search it on your county clerk’s website.

If your ownership is not on record, you must provide a notarized affidavit on Form 50-114-A affirming your ownership interest.

What if My Name Is Not on the Deed?

If you occupy the property but your name isn’t listed on the deed, you’ll need to provide supporting documents, such as:

  • Form 50-114-A (Affidavit of Ownership)
  • Utility bills showing you live at the property
  • Court documents (if available) confirming ownership interest

This situation is common when a spouse or co-owner’s name is on the deed but yours isn’t.

Heir Property Homestead Exemption in Texas

If you acquired the property by will, transfer on death deed, or intestacy, and were not specifically identified on the deed or any recorded instrument, then you must provide:

  • An affidavit of ownership (Form 50-114-A)
  • A copy of the prior owner’s death certificate
  • A copy of the property’s most recent utility bill
  • Any court records relating to your ownership, if available

Each heir property owner who occupies the property as a principal residence must provide an affidavit authorizing the application.

Required Documents at a Glance

  • ✔️ Sale deed or deed number (if listed as owner)
  • ✔️ Affidavit of Ownership (Form 50-114-A) if not listed
  • ✔️ Utility bill, death certificate, or court documents for heir property cases

FAQ

Do I need to be on the deed to get a Texas homestead exemption?

Not always. If your name isn’t on the deed, you can submit Form 50-114-A along with other proof of ownership.

What if the applicant is not listed on the deed?

You must provide a notarized affidavit plus supporting documents such as a utility bill or court records.

Can heirs claim a homestead exemption in Texas?

Yes. Heir property owners can qualify if they submit the required documents (death certificate, Form 50-114-A, utility bill, etc.).

What is Form 50-114-A used for?

It’s an affidavit that proves ownership when the applicant is not listed on the deed.

Related Posts

Have questions? Use the comments section below to ask. We respond to all questions!

Disclaimer

Articles presented here are for general information and education only. It is provided as a courtesy to the general public. SQD Taxtech LLC does not warrant that it is accurate or complete. Opinions expressed and estimates or projections given are those of the authors or persons quoted as of the date of the article with no obligation to update or notify of inaccuracy or change. This article may not be reproduced, distributed or further published by any person without the written consent of SQD Taxtech LLC. Please cite source when quoting.

SQD Taxtech LLC, its managed affiliates and subsidiaries, as a matter of policy, do not give tax, accounting, regulatory or legal advice. Rules in the areas of law, tax, and accounting are subject to change and open to varying interpretations. You should consult with your other advisors on the tax, accounting and legal implications of actions you may take based on any strategies presented, taking into account your own particular circumstances.