Each year, we like to remind those of you who purchased a new home in the previous year to file for a homestead exemption. Below are some basic details about homestead exemptions and how to go about filing for yours. The deadline to file is April 1, so be sure to do it soon. Below you will find a link to the different county commissioner websites if you would like to file online.
What is a Homestead Exemption?
A Homestead Exemption is a legal provision that helps reduce the amount of property taxes owed on owner-occupied homes. Exemptions are established by state law and voted upon by citizens in a given city, county or school district.
Who Qualifies for a Homestead Exemption?
- Own, occupy, and claim the property as your legal residence on January 1 of the year in which you first qualify for the exemption.
- 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 or rental properties, or second homes.
- Homestead exemptions apply to individuals and not to corporations.
How to apply for Homestead Exemption?
Online:
Below you will find the links to the different County Tax Commissioners’ websites where you can apply online.
In Person:
If you appear at the Tax Commissioner’s office in person, you will need to take the recorded warranty deed and have on hand your social security number, picture identification, trust document if property is in a trust, proof of income and tag number of all vehicles owned or leased by all parties on the deed. If the property is deeded into more than one owner, only one owner must appear, but you must present all the above mentioned information of all owners named on the deed.
What is the deadline to apply for Homestead Exemption?
You must file your exemption form by April 1 to have your tax exemption apply to this tax year.
While all homeowners may qualify for a basic homestead exemption, there are also many different exemptions available for seniors and people with full medical or veterans disabilities (and their surviving spouses). Exemptions are also available for surviving spouses of police officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty. Many special exemptions have requirements for age and/ or income.
