House Bill No. 1243 amends the Texas Tax Code to allow married couples who live in separate residences to each qualify for a residence homestead exemption for their respective properties. The bill modifies Section 11.13 by changing the language regarding who is entitled to the exemption, specifically removing the previous reference to "a family or single adult" and replacing it with "an adult." Additionally, it introduces a new subsection (s) that clarifies that individuals married to each other, residing in different homes, can each claim a residence homestead exemption for their principal residences, provided they meet the necessary qualifications.
This legislative change aims to ensure that both spouses can benefit from tax exemptions on their individual homes, promoting fairness for couples who choose to maintain separate residences. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Tax Code 11.13 (Tax Code 11)