Everything You Need to Know About Homestead Exemption
The home buying process can feel like a whirlwind—from house hunting to getting under contract to the closing table, buyers have a ton of information thrown at them. That’s why it’s so important to revisit homestead exemption at the start of every year, in case this info got lost in the shuffle. If you purchased a home in 2022 and it’s your primary residence, you could be saving money on your property taxes. Wondering if you qualify? Read on to learn more…
What is a homestead exemption?
A homestead exemption is an easy way to reduce your property taxes by a significant amount, starting the first year you own a new home. If you own a home and it’s your primary residence, you should apply for homestead exemption. This will save you money on your property tax bills while you live there—plus, it automatically renews every year.
When and how do I apply?
This year, the deadline to apply is April 1, 2023. The application process varies from county to county, but each offers guidance:
When applying for a homestead exemption, someone listed on the deed must complete an application. Here’s the documentation you’ll need when you apply:
Georgia Driver’s License (You must update your driver’s license with your new residence address prior to applying for a homestead exemption. Usually you can update your license online and receive it in the mail within a few weeks.)
Parcel Number (This can be found on a previous tax bill, previous assessment notice, or can be looked up in your county’s tax assessor website.)
Owner Name(s) as listed on the deed
Property Address
Contact Phone Number(s)
Owner Social Security Number(s)
Owner Date(s) of Birth
Current registration for all vehicles of owner and spouse (Registration must show your home address as the property address.)
Trust affidavit (if the property is in the name of a Trust)
State and federal tax returns (if applying for a senior exemption)
Who qualifies for a homestead exemption?
Here’s a rundown of how to qualify for basic homestead exemption:
You must own, occupy, and claim the property as your legal residence on January 1 of the year in which you first qualify for the exemption. For example, if you purchased your home in 2022, then you'd be eligible to apply starting January 2023. If you’ve purchased a home in 2023, you won’t be eligible to apply for a homestead exemption until the beginning of 2024.
The person applying for the Homestead Exemption must be listed on the deed.
You must continue to own and live in the home as your primary residence as long as you claim the exemption.
You cannot claim a Homestead Exemption if you claim one anywhere else.
Homestead Exemptions do not apply to commercial properties, rental properties, or second homes.
Homestead Exemptions apply to individuals and not to corporations.
Once I apply, do I need to re-apply every year?
No. Your homestead exemption will automatically renew each year, as long as you own and occupy the same home as your primary residence.
If the names on the deed change, even if the same people live in the home, the person listed on the deed who occupies the property will need to re-apply for homestead exemption. For example, if you’ve gotten married and recently changed your name, you may need to re-apply.
Anything else I need to know?
While all homeowners may qualify for a basic homestead exemption, there are also many different exemptions available for seniors and people with medical or veteran disabilities (and their surviving spouses). Exemptions are also available for surviving spouses of peace officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty. Many special exemptions have requirements for age and/or income.