HOMESTEAD EXEMPTIONS

In Georgia, certain homeowners may apply for a tax break on their property taxes. Depending on the value of the property, the homestead exemption will excuse the homeowner from a certain amount of taxes that they own on their property, which can save hundred or thousands of dollars a year. 

To be eligible for homestead, the homeowner must occupy the home and it must be the homeowner's legal residence, including on their driver's license, vehicle registrations, and the homeowner's income tax. The homeowner will most likely file in their county of residence. However, some cities require homeowners to file with the city if the homeowner lives within the city limits. It is best to check with your local tax commissioner, tax assessor, or city government to determine the appropriate filing location. Once a homeowner files a homestead application for their primary residence, they cannot file for a homestead exemption for any other property in Georgia or any other state. 

The deadline to file for the homestead exemption is April 1st. The homeowner must have lived in the home on January 1st and filed the homestead application by the same date that property tax returns are due in the homeowner's city or county. 

In order to file for homestead, the homeowner should bring the following documentation. 

• Homeowner's name
• Property address
• Property's parcel ID
• State-issued ID
• Copy of vehicle registration showing residency in that county/city

Certain jurisdictions may require different documentation so the homeowner should contact their local officials to ensure they have the appropriate documentation.