The 89th Texas Legislative Session did more than increase exemptions.
It also changed how appraisal districts operate in 2026.
Homeowners are already seeing differences in:
- Online protest systems
- Homestead verification surveys
- Early-year value notices
- Updated forms and deadlines
If you receive mail from your appraisal district in February or March, do not ignore it. Some of these updates require quick action.
Here is what changed and what to watch for.
1. Updates to EARS & Online Protest Systems
Many appraisal districts use electronic systems such as EARS (Electronic Appraisal Roll System) and related protest portals.
After the 89th Session, several districts were updated:
- Online exemption forms
- Digital protest submission processes
- Evidence upload requirements
- Deadline notifications
What This Means for You
The system may look different this year.
Some homeowners report:
- Missing prior protest history
- Reset login accounts
- New document upload limits
If you plan to protest in 2026, log in early and confirm your account works.
Do not wait until May to discover a system issue.
2. Homestead Verification Surveys Are Increasing
Appraisal districts are increasing homestead verification efforts.
These surveys confirm:
- You still live in the home
- The property remains your primary residence
- Ownership records match exemption claims
You may receive:
- A mailed questionnaire
- An online verification request
- A deadline notice for a response
Important:
Failure to respond can result in temporary exemption removal.
If you receive a verification letter, respond quickly and keep copies.
3. Early-Year Value Notices Are More Common
Several districts now send preliminary value notices in February.
These are not final values. They are early estimates.
They allow homeowners to:
- Review property details
- Confirm exemptions
- Prepare for protest season
What to Check
- Square footage accuracy
- Market value increases
- Exemption status
- Tax ceiling (if senior or disabled)
Early review gives you more preparation time.
4. Form and Documentation Changes
The 89th Session also led to updated forms for:
- Homestead applications
- Senior and disability exemptions
- Veteran exemptions
- Business personal property filings
Some forms now require:
- Additional proof of residency
- Updated ID verification
- Clearer ownership documentation
Always download the newest version from your appraisal district website.
Old forms may be rejected.
5. Stronger Compliance and Audit Measures
Appraisal districts are also under tighter oversight.
This means:
- More verification letters
- Data cross-checking with state records
- Closer review of exemption eligibility
This does not mean homeowners should worry.
It means paperwork accuracy matters more in 2026.
What Homeowners Should Watch for in February & March
During these months, pay attention to:
✔ Early value notices
✔ Homestead verification letters
✔ Updated exemption confirmations
✔ Online system login changes
✔ Deadline reminders
Ignoring mail during this period can create bigger issues later.
Why Early Action Matters
Fixing problems early:
- Prevents exemption removal
- Strengthens future protests
- Avoids refund delays
- Reduces stress before May deadlines
The earlier you respond, the easier the correction process becomes.
When to Contact TexasPVP
TexasPVP can help if:
- You receive a confusing verification notice
- Your exemption was removed
- Your online protest account does not work
- Your early value looks too high
A professional review can prevent small issues from becoming expensive problems.
Final Takeaway
The 89th Session changed more than exemption amounts.
It reshaped how appraisal districts operate in 2026.
February and March are critical months. Review every notice. Respond quickly. Confirm your exemptions.
Staying proactive now protects your savings later.
TexasPVP is here to help
