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.

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

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.

Once approved, most homestead exemptions are automatically renewed each year as long as you continually occupy the home under the same ownership.