File this form and all supporting documentation with the appraisal district office in each county in which the property is located generally between Jan. This video will cover how to fill out the homestead exemption form.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. To qualify for the homeowners' exemption, the home must have been the principal residence of the owner as of January 1 of that tax year. Bought a primary residence within the past year in Texas? It's time to file for your Texas Homestead Exemption. Bought a primary residence within the past year in Texas? It's time to file for your Texas Homestead Exemption.