Apply for a Homestead Exemption
A homestead exemption can give you tax breaks on what you pay in property taxes.
A homestead exemption reduces the amount of property taxes homeowners owe on their legal residence.
You must file with the county or city where your home is located. Each county has different applications and required documents. Various types of homestead exemptions are available, including those based on assessed home value and homeowner age.
Homestead exemption applications are due by April 1 for the current tax year.
How Do I … File a Homestead Exemption Application?
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Determine if You’re Eligible
To be eligible for a homestead exemption:
- You must have owned the property as of January 1.
- The home must be considered your legal residence for all purposes.
- You must occupy the home.
- You cannot already claim a homestead exemption for another property in Georgia or in any other state.
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Gather What You’ll Need
Required documents vary by county or city. If you are applying for a special exemption, additional documentation to show proof of eligibility will be required. They can include:
- Homeowner’s name
- Property address
- Property’s parcel ID
- Proof of residency, such as a copy of valid Georgia driver’s license and a copy of vehicle registration
- Recorded deed for new owners, if county records have not been updated
- Trust document and affidavit, if the property is in a trust
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File Your Homestead Exemption
You must file your homestead exemption application with your county tax officials. Please contact your county tax officials for how to file your homestead exemption application.
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Next Steps
Once approved, most homestead exemptions are automatically renewed each year as long as you continually occupy the home under the same ownership.