What You Need To Know About Homestead Exemptions
A Homestead Exemption provides property tax relief for those who own and occupy their home as a primary residence. The State of Georgia offers homestead exemptions to all qualifying homeowners. Some counties have increased the amounts of their homestead exemptions by local legislation above the amounts offered by the State. As a general rule the exemptions offered by the county are more beneficial to the homeowner.
- Athens-Clarke County – Standard Homestead Exemption is an amount equal to $10,000 which is deducted from the 40% assessed value of the homestead property.
- Oconee County – Standard Homestead Exemption is an amount equal to $2,000 which is deducted from the 40% assessed value of the homestead property.
There are various types of homestead exemptions, in addition to the standard homestead exemption, that you may qualify for. You can learn more by reviewing your local county taxpayer guide or by contacting your county tax commissioner’s office.
Qualifications
- You must own and occupy your home on January 1st of the taxable year
- You must have your vehicles registered in the county of residence
- You must be a U.S. Citizen or an alien with legal authorization from the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service
When to File Your Homestead Exemption
- In the state of Georgia, applications are due APRIL 1st. If filed after April 1, exemption will not be granted until the next calendar year.
- Failure to apply by the deadline will result in loss of the exemption for that year.
- Once granted, the homestead exemption is automatically renewed each year and the taxpayer does not have to apply again unless there is a change of ownership or the taxpayer seeks to qualify for a different exemption.
Where to File Your Homestead Exemption
Depending on the county, you will likely submit your application to either the tax commissioner’s office or the tax assessor’s office.
- Athens-Clarke County – Apply in person at the Athens-Clarke County Tax Commissioner’s Office. Each owner must sign the application and homestead card.
- Oconee County – Apply in person at the Oconee County Tax Commissioner’s Office. Each owner must sign the application and homestead card.