File this form and all supporting documentation with the appraisal district office in each county in which the property is located generally between Jan. When Should You File for Texas Homestead Exemption?File as soon as you own and occupy your home. The easiest way to do it is just go down to the local appraisal district office in your county, every county has one, and do it in person. Complete the application process. You must apply with your county appraisal district to get a homestead exemption. Applying is free and only needs to be filed once. To apply for the exemption, homeowners must submit a completed application to their county appraisal district. This video will cover how to fill out the homestead exemption form.